Outlander’s Sam Heughan on reason for sharing ‘eating disorder’ ordeal

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Jamie Fraser star Sam Heughan recently published his book, Waypoints where he detailed his struggles with body image during the early stages of his career. The actor shared the candid reason he decided to open up about his battles with an eating disorder.

Sam burst into the limelight and quickly became a household name after landing his role as the beloved Scottish soldier, Jamie Fraser in Outlander back in 2014. 

Throughout the years, Sam has become a fan-favourite for his portrayal of the kind-hearted and brave highlander. 

As viewers await the release of season seven, Sam took a break from filming to embark on a gruelling 96-mile journey across Scotland on foot. 

The actor reflected on the trek in his new book, Waypoints and detailed the personal battles he’s faced throughout his career, so far. 

During an appearance on NBC’s Today show, Sam was quizzed about the reasons he opened up about his “low-level eating disorder”.

He shared: “I think as a young actor, quite green, not much experience there were a lot of pressures certainly starting off in the industry that I didn’t really understand.

“There was a certain body type, that I think we were expected to have.”

Sam continued: “Women talk about it a lot, actresses have talked about the pressures they face but I don’t think men do and I wanted to mention it.”

After receiving praise from the hosts, Sam added: “Fortunately that’s why I started my own charity fitness program. 

“It was about education and getting information to other people so they don’t face the same pressures.”

During the interview, Sam also spoke on the solo trek which tested his willpower, resilience and strength. 

To which he admitted: “I was carrying far too much gear and I almost gave up definitely.”

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When probed on his motivation, Sam answered: “It was actually someone I met along the way. 

“I wanted to do this solitary walk, you know, I wanted to reflect on my life and really get back to nature.

“But actually it was the people I met along the way that really kind of made it a lot more fulfilling I guess.”

As well as his personal journey, Sam also dropped a hint about his character’s storyline in the upcoming seventh season. 

He teased: “We’re picking up where we left off and there’s so much involved this season.”

Fans will recall the final moments of season six which saw Jamie and his men seemingly galloping towards Wilmington prison to save his wife Claire Fraser (Caitriona Balfe). 

After she was wrongfully arrested for murder the two had trekked together alongside Richard Brown and his committee of safety for her trial hearing. 

However, they were brutally separated on the way, but fans will have to stay tuned to see if the couple will make their way back to one another. 

Outlander seasons 1-6 are available to stream on Lionsgate+ via Amazon Prime Video now in the UK.

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