©Deadline - Sydney Gawlik/NetflixThe final chapter of this YA adventure series sees the return of many familiar faces, as well as some major promotions within the cast. Actor Cullen Moss, who has appeared since season one as deputy and later sheriff Shoupe, has been promoted to series regular. J Anthony Crane, who was introduced in season four as Chandler Groff, the biological father of JJ (played by Rudy Pankow), is also given a prominent role in season five. His promotion signals a larger role in the conflict, especially considering his character was established as the main antagonist at the end of season four.
Two first-look images from the new season have been released, giving fans a glimpse into the new group dynamic following JJ's shocking death in the season four finale. One of the images features returning cast members Chase Stokes (John B.), Madelyn Cline (Sarah), Madison Bailey (Kiara), Jonathan Daviss (Pope), Carlacia Grant (Cleo) and Drew Starkey (Rafe).
This lineup bears a strong resemblance to the promo footage for season four, which also featured six Pogues — except Rafe now takes the place of the deceased JJ, confirming speculation that his role will expand in season five. In the season four finale, Rafe unexpectedly became an ally to the Pogues when he helped them find Blackbeard's treasure and vowed to avenge JJ's death and retrieve the Blue Crown — a valuable relic that Chandler stole from his son just before killing him.
Sheriff Shoupe is also likely to play a larger role in the final season. His character has evolved over the years from a corrupt police officer to an honest ally of John B. and his friends, and could now become an important support in their fight for justice.
In addition to Moss and Crane, the other main characters are returning: Austin North (Topper) and Fiona Palomo (Sofia) are rejoining the cast, as are Stokes, Cline, Bailey, Daviss, Starkey and Grant. The series is created by Jonas Pate, Josh Pate and Shannon Burke, who also serve as executive producers.
Since its premiere, Outer Banks has had a huge impact worldwide. The series has been viewed almost 200 million times and has been in the Top 10 of English-language Netflix series 25 times.
Josh Pate previously said of the final season: “When we get to the end, I think everyone will be happy. Everything will be wrapped up and every story will have an ending.”
Check out the two first-look photos for season five below.
©Deadline - Sydney Gawlik/Netflix
©Deadline - Sydney Gawlik/Netflix
