IN CONVERSATION WITH DAVID BERRY

interview by JANA LETONJA

For nearly a decade, David Berry has been a defining presence in Outlander, bringing depth, restraint, and emotional intelligence to the beloved character of Lord John Grey. Across six seasons, his nuanced portrayal of the principled British diplomat—torn between duty, desire, and loyalty—has earned critical acclaim and a fiercely devoted global fanbase. As Outlander entered its highly anticipated final season, David reflects on the legacy of a character who resonated far beyond the page, and a career shaped by classical training, musical roots, and a passion for storytelling both on and off screen. 

As Outlander entered its final season, what emotions surface when you look back on your journey with Lord John Grey? 

Overwhelming gratitude for a show and character that has given me so much. Lord John has gone through tremendous growth across 6 seasons, and I have been able to grow and challenge myself in parallel. I’m sad that the journey has come to end, but deeply fulfilled that the character will live on in the hearts of so many fans for years to come. 

Lord John became a fan favorite almost immediately. What do you think audiences connected with most in him? 

I think Lord John is one of the most relatable characters in the show. In many ways, he serves as a proxy for the audience. He’s deeply in love with Jamie Fraser, yet he knows that love can never be fully realised. That’s something audiences understand on a very human level. After all, who isn’t a little in love with Jamie Fraser? 

What did it mean to represent a character like Lord John, especially given his complexity and quiet courage, on a show of this scale? 

In terms of representation, I was very much aware of Lord John’s importance to LGBTQ audiences, and I held that responsibility with great care and respect. There was also an obligation to the fans of the book series. It was important to me to honour the integrity of a character who means so much to so many people. 

At times, that responsibility felt overwhelming, particularly in the earlier seasons when I was less certain how my portrayal of Lord John was being received. But as the show went on and I became more aware of the positive response, I grew bolder and more confident in my choices. 

By the time we reach season 8, I think we’re able to see the full spectrum of Lord John’s complexity and nuance. 

How did working within a long-running ensemble like Outlander shape you as an actor? 

I had already had experience working on a long running show on A Place to Call Home. Working with people for this long, they become more than just work colleagues, you become bonded in a much more enduring way. The cast feels like family to me. 

How did your early training at NIDA and background in music influence your work on Outlander? 

NIDA has a reputation for producing some of the finest actors in the world. My time there gave me the skills and techniques that became the foundation of my work as an actor. 

Coming from a classical music background, do you approach acting with a similar discipline or rhythm? 

Acting, like music, whether classical, pop, jazz, or even hip hop, is a craft. There’s a pervasive and misleading fantasy that acting is entirely instinctual. While instincts are at the core of acting, it takes a lifetime to understand and use them effectively in service of your craft. My education in music certainly helped me grasp this, and taught me how to apply discipline to the craft of acting. 

Outside of acting, you co-host The Outcasts podcast. What inspired you to explore that side of storytelling? 

Co-hosting doesn’t come easily to me, but The Outcasts project was a fun and valuable distraction during the pandemic. I’m grateful to my co-host, Tim Downie, for his friendship and belief in me while creating the show. I’m very proud of the podcast we made together. 

How has engaging with fans through the podcast and conventions shaped your perspective on the impact of the show? 

Perhaps the most rewarding experience from doing the show has been the interaction with the fans. Their generosity, support and dedication to the show never cease to amaze me. 

As you close this chapter, what kinds of roles or stories are you most excited to explore next? 

It’s not easy to come off a long-running show and jump into the next thing. The transition has been challenging. Part of saying goodbye to Outlander is moving forward and hoping to find new opportunities as an actor. My time on the show, however, will always have an enduring impact on me. 

How do you personally say goodbye to a character you’ve lived with for so long? 

I don’t think saying goodbye to Lord John is truly possible. Over the years, he has become part of my life, part of who I am. Letting go of him would be like trying to say goodbye to a piece of myself, something I simply cannot do. 

Finally, what do you hope viewers feel when the final season of Outlander comes to an end? 

Love, romance, tears, hope, joy. All the emotions Outlander has brought to fans for years.

TEAM CREDITS

talent DAVID BERRY
photographer AYSIA MAROTTA
stylist DOLLY PRATT
groomer JENNY SAUCE
interview and editorial director JANA LETONJA