Sam Heughan of Outlander shared a rare personal message on social media last night, detailing the “abuse” and “bullying” he’s endured in the spotlight.

“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,” he began his note, which he shared on his Instagram Stories and Twitter. “It’s affecting my life, mental state and is a daily concern.”

Shutting down false claims made about him, including “manipulating fans, being a closet-homosexual, trying to mislead or exhort fans for money and disregarding [COVID-19] advice,” the Scottish actor also clarified that he’s currently self-isolating in Hawaii and that he flew there before a travel ban was enforced.

Heughan, who has starred in Starz’s hit fantasy series for five seasons and counting, shared that his family, friends, and costars (who have included Caitriona Balfe, Sophie Skelton, and Tobias Menzies through the years) have also been subjected to “personal slurs, shaming, abuse, death threats, stalking, sharing of private information and vile, false narrative.” He noted that people have sent items, “[stalked] my private accommodation,” and tried hacking into his colleagues’ emails and personal accounts.

Explaining why he refrained from speaking about the harsh treatment in the past, Heughan shared, “Because I believe in humanity and have always hoped these bullies would just go away.” He didn’t identify his aggressors for “legal reasons,” but he explained that they’re “professionals” and “adults who should know better.” Going forward, he will “block anyone that writes anything defamatory or abusive.”

In the wake of his message, Outlander fans showed their support for Heughan with the hashtag, #WeStandWithSam. Their tweets include comforting and encouraging notes for Heughan, and disapproval for his trolls. Some even posted personal photos with the actor.

Heughan did, however, end his message on a hopeful note, thanking fans and followers who’ve remained supportive. “I’m so grateful, from the bottom of my heart,” he wrote. “Stay safe and please be kind to yourself and each other. There’s so much more to concern ourselves with right now.”

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