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Outlander star Sam Heughan hits out at 'bullies' in explosive social media post

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 10: Sam Heughan attends the premiere of Sony Pictures' "Bloodshot" on March 10, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
Sam Heughan attends the premiere of Sony Pictures' "Bloodshot" on March 10, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

Outlander hunk Sam Heughan has spoken out on social media after suffering years of what he calls “bullying and harassment” thrown his way by online trolls.

The award-winning actor has played the role of warrior Jamie Fraser in the time-hopping show which is based on US writer Diana Gaboldon’s series of novels which started with 1991’s Outlander.

Heughan has played the character since 2014 and has won plenty of admirers along the way, but his stardom has also lead to more negative attention.

Read more: Outlander star laughs off ever returning after recent season 5 exit

In an biting and honest social media post, he wrote: “After the past six years of constant bullying, harassment, stalking and false narrative I am at a loss, upset, hurt and have to speak out.

“It’s affecting my life, mental state and is a daily concern. My costars, friends, family, myself, in fact anyone I’m associated with, has been subjected to personal slurs, shaming, abuse, death threats, stalking, sharing of private information and vile, false narrative.

“Recently, these false claims vary from me manipulating fans, being a closest homosexual, trying to mislead or exhort fans for money and disregarding Covid advice. I’ve done none of the above.

“I’m a normal guy and nothing like the characters I play. Most recently, some of you may know I’m currently self isolating in Hawaii. I came here before the travel ban.”

Addressing those who had said otherwise, he continued: “None of us knew how bad things would get but as the situation worsened, upon the advice of everyone I trust, I decided to remain in a safe environment.

Read more: Outlander conference among latest events called off

“I was a good decision. I’m safe, isolated, putting no one at risk and am not a burden to the locals… We have not been asked to leave.”

He went on to say he will “not entertain it anymore” saying: “These bullies have created a false narrative, sharing private information and abused my loved ones and I consistently for the last six years on blogs and social media.”

Heughan’s looks, charm and acting chops have put him in line to take over Daniel Craig as James Bond, with Paddy Power currently having him down as 6-1 to be the new 007.