When a long-running TV series reaches its final season, audiences naturally brace themselves for devastating losses. With a show like Outlander, some deaths are already established in the source material, making them almost inevitable for the screen adaptation.

Season 8 of Outlander will largely draw from Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone, while also weaving in elements from Written in My Own Heart’s Blood. On top of that, the series must resolve storylines from the ninth book, much of which ends on unresolved cliffhangers.

Taking all of this into account, we’ve identified three deaths that viewers should be emotionally preparing for in the final season. One of them may come as a shock—but rest assured, that particular “death” doesn’t last.

Henri-Christian

As previously discussed on claireandjamie.com, clues from the Outlander season 8 teaser suggest that a heartbreaking loss is on the horizon. This moment originates from Written in My Own Heart’s Blood, though changes made for the TV series could bring Roger and Brianna into the storyline as well.

During a devastating fire at the print shop, both Germain and Henri-Christian escape to the roof. Tragically, when Henri-Christian leaps toward the men waiting below, they fail to catch him, and he falls to his death. The moment is utterly devastating and leaves Germain burdened with overwhelming survivor’s guilt. It’s not a storyline anyone looks forward to—but it’s one many fans are bracing themselves to witness.

Benjamin Grey (in a way)

In Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone, William sets out to discover the fate of his cousin Benjamin. His search eventually leads him to a grave bearing Benjamin’s name, convincing many that Benjamin has been killed. However, the truth later emerges: Benjamin is alive and has defected from the British forces to join the Americans.

This storyline is deeply connected to Hal Grey and also ties into Lord John Grey’s arc. Based on leaked images released last year, it appears Lord John may be captured in the upcoming season, making Benjamin’s storyline an important narrative setup. That said, with limited time left in the series, it’s unlikely this plot will receive extensive screen time.

Jamie Fraser (don’t panic)

One of the most significant “deaths” in Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone is almost certain to appear in Outlander season 8—and it involves Jamie Fraser.

Before anyone objects, yes—Jamie technically survives. But from a certain perspective, he does die. If not for Claire’s intervention and her ability to revive him using the mysterious blue light, Jamie would not have survived. Without her presence and the awakening of her powers, his fate would have been sealed.

Because of this, some version of this storyline is expected to play out on screen. However, the show has barely explored Claire’s supernatural abilities since season 4, and her hair does not appear to be fully turning white before the series concludes—a detail previously examined on claireandjamie.com. These differences may lead the show to alter events, possibly having Jamie saved through more conventional means, as Claire has done in the past. Still, fear surrounding his death may arise, particularly due to Frank’s book referencing a battle Jamie is involved in.

Outlander season 8 is set to premiere on Friday, March 6, on STARZ.