“When we read the books, it’s dealt with in little bits and bobs here and there, but she never really deals with it,” Outlander executive producer Maril Davis exclusively tells Parade. “And it felt like such a traumatic experience that it didn’t seem like we could ignore that, and it didn’t seem like we did justice to the character if we did. And so, we really leaned into that. I think the writers did an amazing job with coming up with this coping mechanism for Claire.” Along with showrunner Matthew B. Roberts, Davis brought Balfe (who is also a producer on the show) into the conversation to make sure they were all in sync with how to deal with the fact that Claire, despite knowing that Jamie and the men of Fraser’s Ridge had killed all her captors, is having flashbacks. “Caitriona was really on board in exploring what this would be like and how as a doctor she’s always kind of compartmentalized, but what happens when you’re unable to do that anymore?” Davis explained. “Claire’s so used to tamping down her feelings in some ways in this area that she’s just struggling with how to deal with that this season. So, I think we’ll see that escalate. And how she chooses to deal with that is something we added and just felt was needed.” Filming on Season 6 of Outlander came with more than its fair share of logistical challenges as well as narrative ones. Due to strict COVID-19 protocols during production—as well as Balfe’s pregnancy, which was kept (sometimes literally) under wraps—the decision was made to shorten Season 6 down to just eight episodes, instead of the usual dozen. (The missing four will be filmed and tacked onto Season 7.) However, those hurdles felt more like a blessing in disguise for Davis. “To be quite honest, I loved this season,” she said. “I would have loved it if we had had the four extra episodes, but it ends at such an exciting moment. And once again, this was not planned. Obviously, we went into the season thinking we were doing 12 episodes. So, the way it ends, I think, is super exciting. It’s a rollercoaster ride more than any other season and it’s jam packed.” Once Season 6 filming started in Scotland, the weather was another factor to consider, although Davis said it gives the show a whole different look because there was so much more snow than in previous seasons. “I don’t think it was easy for the cast and crew, but the look of it is amazing,” Davis added. “I mean, no one wants to be in this pandemic, I think we’ve all got COVID fatigue, but I’m so thrilled with how this season turned out, and there was a silver lining. Caitriona has a child. So many good things came out of this season.” The sixth season of Outlander premieres Sunday, March 6 on Starz. Next, Check Out the Latest Sneak Peek From Season 6 of Outlander and Find Out Which Cast Member Calls It His Favorite Season Yet
