The Netflix original series, “Outer Banks,” has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, thanks in no small part to its talented and diverse cast. Getting to witness the meshing of people of different societal statuses is something that you won’t regret watching in the show.
For those that are new, Outer Banks follows a group of teenagers living in the Outer Banks. There are two classifications – The Pogues who are the “poor” or working-class kids and the Kooks who are the “rich spoiled brats.” While the two groups don’t see eye to eye, things change when John B. and Sarah start going out.
A lot of things unfold as the show progresses and each episode unfolds a mystery that will surely leave you on the edge of your seat. If you want a comprehensive character guide, this article will have it all.
1. John B. Routledge (Chase Stokes)
If we had to crown a character as the pivotal one, it would be John B, played by Chase Stokes. He is the charismatic leader of the Pogues and his relentless pursuit of the Royal Merchant treasure sets the stage for the series’ gripping narrative. Despite some of the questionable choices and decisions that John makes in the show, you can’t fault him for it because he is thrust into a world of danger, injustice, and first love.
2. Sarah Cameron (Madelyn Cline)
While we were on the topic of protagonists, we had to include Sarah in the second spot. Played by Madelyn Cline, Sarah’s character is the opposite of what John B. is. Right from her birth, Sarah finds herself drawn to the adventurous world of the Pogues. Cline’s portrayal of Sarah intricately weaves a tale of conflicted loyalties, as she navigates the tumultuous waters of teenage rebellion, family expectations, and forbidden love.
3. JJ Maybank (Rudy Pankow)
Every hero needs a side kick and that’s JJ for John B. The two are best of friends and the kind of bond they share on the show is pretty heartwarming to watch and witness. As the wild and unpredictable Pogue, JJ adds a layer of humor and complexity to the group dynamic. Rudy has done a tremendous job with this role, especially with the way he has showcased his character’s struggle with his troubled past. The depth and emotions showcased by him are worth praising.
4. Kiara “Kie” Carrera (Madison Bailey)
If you are a fan of Madison Bailey, chances are that you will love witnessing her portray the role of Kie in Outer Banks. It is unlike anything else that she has done, so it makes sense that her dedicated fanbase is quite literally from this show. As the socially conscious and free-spirited Pogue, Kie brings a refreshing energy to the group. Kie’s passion for social justice and the varying environmental causes that are depicted in the series is quite engaging and educational at the same time.
5. Pope Heyward (Jonathan Daviss)
Jonathan Daviss embodies the intellectual and empathetic Pope Heyward, rounding out the core group of Pogues. The character development that the character of Pope undergoes in this show is worth praising and talking about. Pope’s journey from a bookish scholar to an integral part of the Royal Merchant treasure hunt is expertly portrayed by Daviss. His nuanced performance captures the essence of a character torn between loyalty to friends and the pursuit of personal aspirations.
6. Ward Cameron (Charles Esten)
Sometimes, you need to have a character that you simply can’t stand in the show, even though it is a fictitious character. Well, somehow Ward Cameron’s character manages to tick that list quite well. As a wealthy businessman and Sarah’s father, Ward’s character adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the storyline. Esten’s seasoned acting skills bring depth to Ward’s complexities, leaving viewers questioning his motives and alliances. Charles Esten has done a tremendous job with the role, so well that you’d not know what he is up to until the end.
7. Topper Thornton (Austin North)
Well, we know that Outer Banks is fuelled by John B and Sarah’s relationship, so to add to the drama, we have Topper Thornton, who happens to be Sarah’s ex. He is one of the most prominent figures in the Kooks and some of his actions in the show will leave you angry, be warned. Topper’s journey from a seemingly privileged Kook to a character grappling with his moral compass is compellingly portrayed by North. His interactions with the Pogues add a layer of tension and emotional depth to the series.
8. Rafe Cameron (Drew Starkey)
Although Rafe’s character isn’t as extensive as the others, you can’t deny the fact that he adds an integral element to the storyline and deserves a mention in the character guide. Drew Starkey is not disappointed. Rafe’s descent into a world of crime and violence is a central arc in the series, and Starkey’s intense portrayal captures the darkness that lurks within the Cameron family.
9. Deputy Shoupe (Cullen Moss)
Pretty much every town in a fictional show requires law enforcement and that job is taken care of by Deputy Shoupe, portrayed by Cullen Moss, in Outer Banks. As the Pogues navigate treacherous waters, Deputy Shoupe becomes a formidable obstacle in their quest for justice. Moss’s performance adds a layer of tension and suspense to the series.
10. Cleo (Carlacia Grant)
Although Cleo’s character entered the show in the second season, she has managed to become an integral part of the whole series. The mysterious yet resourceful addition to the mix of all the teenagers often makes people turn heads. However, you can’t deny the fact that her motives seem very questionable too. So, it’s safe to say that she adds another layer of curiosity to the series.
Conclusion
Outer Banks is a worthy watch, irrespective of what you have read about it online. The storyline is unique and so is the way the characters are represented in the show. If you want to engage in some show that’s not monotonous and takes you into a world of friendship, loyalty, mystery, and betrayal, we’d recommend giving this a go.