Laura Donnelly lands lead role in Joss Whedon’s The Nevers on HBO

Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room
Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room /
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If you were hoping that Laura Donnelly would return to Outlander as Jenny Fraser Murray, you may be disappointed. However, exciting for the actress, Donnelly has landed the lead in Joss Whedon’s The Nevers on HBO.

There’s a bittersweet element to the recent news. Outlander’s Laura Donnelly has landed the lead in a new show coming to HBO. Joss Whedon’s The Nevers has been ordered straight to series and now has its leading lady.

This is excellent news for the actress, who we best know as Jenny Fraser Murray. Hot off the Broadway production The Ferryman, she’s gained a lead role in a TV series on the cable network that airs Game of Thrones. So, why is it bittersweet news? Well, as fans of Outlander, it means we’re unlikely to see Jenny Murray again.

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Donnelly did warn fans that this might be the case. When sharing that she wouldn’t be in the fourth season, despite her character being in the novels, Donnelly shared that there was a chance she wouldn’t return in the future. Jenny isn’t needed in the fifth book, but there is a part of her to play in future novels. If Donnelly continues with her successful career (and I hope she does) then it will mean the show either has to recast or will need to rewrite sections to work without Jenny being there.

For those who would like to see her in this new role, The Nevers is set in the Victorian period. It’s a science fiction drama where women learn that they have unusual abilities and they’re sent on a mission to change the world. Donnelly will play Amalia True, the most reckless and impulsive of all the characters. She’s the emotionally damaged hero and considered a menace to society. Part of her character sounds like she’s alcohol dependent, but she will also die for the cause she’s on.

Whedon, who is best known for creating the likes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Dollhouse and has also been involved in the Avengers franchise, will executive produce and act as showrunner on the series. It’s certainly going to be a series to check out.

Next. How can Outlander handle Jenny Murray if Laura Donnelly doesn't return?. dark

What do you think about The Nevers? Are you excited to see Laura Donnelly in a new role? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The Nevers doesn’t have a slated release date yet. Stay tuned by following Claire and Jamie on Twitter for the latest updates.