Lord John Grey is one of the most layered characters on Outlander. Played by David Berry, the English soldier and diplomat is a longtime friend of Jamie Fraser, despite being a British loyalist.
Being gay adds another layer to his character, as he has feelings for Jamie, which he has kept hidden for many years. John likes to be morally correct and always plays by the rules, hence, does not let his love overpower his friendship.
However, he reaches a breaking point in Outlander season 7, episode 12, and screams and shouts at Jamie. John’s emotional breakdown stems from his deep feelings and the sacrifices he has made for his friend.
The reason behind Lord John Grey's emotional breakdown in Outlander season 7
Lord John Grey is counted among the most honorable and selfless characters in Outlander. He always tries to do what is right even though it can harm him. This is evident when he agrees to marry Claire Fraser to protect her from being executed as a rebel spy after Jamie is presumed dead.
The marriage is only an act of loyalty to Jamie. Both Claire and John are grieving Jamie, who is believed to have died in a shipwreck. To complicate matters, Claire knows about John's feelings for Jamie. However, as the two mourn their loss, they end up sleeping together.
They initially lash out at each other in sorrow and anger. However, the newlyweds eventually collapse into each other’s arms in a moment of vulnerability. They then have an intimate encounter, which neither of the two intended. Both regret their decision the next morning but have a better understanding of each other’s pain.
Meanwhile, John’s decision to marry Claire also puts his reputation at risk. He is a loyalist who stands up for a rebel. He is in a constant dilemma between his personal beliefs and his love for his friends but ends up choosing his friends at the end and ties the knot with Claire to protect her.
But even after this selfless act, Jamie does not show gratitude towards John. When he unexpectedly returns alive, he pretends to keep John as a hostage to escape from the British army in Outlander season 7 episode 12.
John and Jamie then have a confrontation, and the former reveals he slept with Claire. The confession leads to tension between the two friends. Jamie initially refuses to believe John and starts mocking him.
This makes John furious, and for the first time, he forgets about doing the right thing and lets his real emotions out. He begins to scream and shout at Jamie, confessing that he was only imagining Jamie in his mind while making out with Claire.
Meanwhile, Jamie has a lot to process. Not only did his friend sleep with his wife, but also just confessed his feelings explicitly. He then punches John and starts beating him brutally.
John’s breakdown results from his suppressed emotions. For years, he has brushed his feelings under the carpet to maintain his honorable character. He always put others’ needs above his own.
However, his unrequited love for Jamie, his unwanted marriage to Claire, and Jamie’s extreme reaction pushes him to a breaking point. John’s emotional outburst is a turning point in his character.
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He finally allows himself to feel and express the pain he has endured for years. While it is difficult for him to confront these emotions, it is surely going to help him in his personal journey.
Outlander season 7 airs new episodes on Starz on Fridays.
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