Outlander star Sam Heughan has slammed online bullies for subjecting him to six years of ‘constant bullying, harassment and stalking’ in an emotional Twitter post.
Taking to social media on Friday, the actor, 39, claimed he and his family had been subjected to death threats and abuse by unnamed individuals and that he ‘had to speak out’ due to the toll it is taking on his mental health.
The Scottish star also defended his decision to isolate in Hawaii saying he was ‘putting no one at risk and am not a burden to the locals.’
Harrowing: Outlander star Sam Heughan has slammed online bullies for subjecting him to six years of ‘constant bullying, harassment and stalking’ in an emotional Twitter post (pictured January 2020)
The star, who shot to fame on the first series of Outlander in 2014, wrote: ‘After the past 6 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.
‘I’ve never spoken about it because I believe in humanity and have always hoped these bullies would just go away. I can’t elaborate for ongoing legal reasons but they are professionals: teachers, psychologists, adults who should know better.’
He continued: ‘Recently, these false claims vary from me manipulating fans, being a closet-homosexual, trying to mislead or exhort fans for money and disregarding Covid advice.
Fame: Taking to social media on Friday, the actor, 39, claimed he and his family had been subjected to death threats by unnamed individuals and that he ‘had to speak out’ due to the toll it is taking on his mental health (pictured as James MacKenzie Fraser in Outlander)
‘I’ve done non of the above. I’m a normal guy and nothing like the characters I play.’
Explaining his decision to self-isolate in Hawaii rather than return to the UK, he wrote: ‘I came here before the travel ban. Non 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.
‘It was a good decision. I’m safe, isolated, putting no one at risk and am not a burden to the locals. Several telling me they are desperate to sell their produce (as hotels and restaurants are now closed). We have not been asked to leave.
‘I’m nervous to take 3-5 flights back to the UK, around 20 hours on several planes, exposing myself to more danger, to be stuck in a city.
‘This will only increase the risk to others and myself. Recently I was ill for 3 months and am being doubly careful.’
Brave: The star, who shot to fame on the first series of Outlander in 2014, wrote: ‘After the past 6 years of constant bullying, harassment, stalking and false narrative I am at a loss, upset, hurt and have to speak out’
Sam said the bullies had created a ‘false narrative’ about himself as well as sharing private information and abusing himself and his loved ones on ‘blogs and social media.’
He added: ‘I will not entertain it anymore and am blocking anyone that writes anything defamatory or abusive.
‘Sending items or stalking my private accommodation, they have harassed my work colleagues and constantly tried to hack our email and personal accounts. I’m so hurt by this.’
The star finished his statement by writing: ‘As an actor in these times, we feel impotent.
Speaking out: Sam said the bullies had created a ‘false narrative’ about himself as well as sharing private information and abusing himself and his loved ones on ‘blogs and social media’ (pictured March 2020)
‘We can’t do much but I have tried to use what leverage I have to provide a voice to charities that need it and hopefully a little entertainment or light relief.
‘For those still unhappy I suggest you unfollow. To every fan that has supported me and the work I do, THANK YOU. I’m so grateful, from the bottom of my heart. Stay safe and please be kind to yourself and each other. There’s so much more to concern ourselves with right now. See you around.xx’
MailOnline has contacted Sam Heughan’s representatives for comment.
Sam is most famous for his role as Highland warrior Jamie MacKenzie Fraser in Outlander alongside Catriona Balfe.
The hit series has already been renewed for a sixth season on Starz, which will likely debut in 2021.
Outlander cast: Season 5 of Outlander has recently debuted on Starz, series stars Sam Heughan, Caitriona Balfe, Sophie Skelton and Richard Rankin visited Build Studios in February 2020
The fifth season is largely based on the fifth book in the Outlander novel series, The Fiery Cross, with sixth season based on the sixth book, A Breath of Snow and Ashes.
Outlander follows the romance through time between Claire, an English combat nurse in 1945, who becomes transported back in time to 1743, where she meets Jamie.
There are currently eight books in Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander novel series, with the most recent book, Written In My Heart’s Own Blood, published in 2014.
Gabaldon is currently writing the ninth book in the series, Go Tell The Bees That I’m Gone, which doesn’t have a publication date.
If you have been affected by this story, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
Success story: Outlander follows the romance through time between Claire, an English combat nurse in 1945, who becomes transported back in time to 1743, where she meets Jamie