Chase Stokes Looks Ahead as Outer Banks Sets Sail for Its Final Season
As the sun sets on one of Netflix’s most iconic teen dramas, Outer Banks, fans and cast alike find themselves experiencing a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Chase Stokes, the face of the show’s adventurous protagonist, John B. Routledge, opened up recently about his journey on the series and what lies ahead as production wraps up its fifth and final season.
The Journey: From Unknown to Star
Stokes joined the cast of Outer Banks in 2019 when the show seemed like a small, intimate project. Fast-forward a few years, and it has morphed into a global sensation that captured the hearts of millions. “It went from a little tiny boat show to a global phenomenon,” Stokes remarked, blending disbelief and pride.
What does this transformation mean for those involved? With its fan base growing like a tidal wave, Stokes, now 33, acknowledges the blessings of being part of such a creative endeavor. However, he also understands the importance of knowing when to say goodbye. “We want the story to end on the right note,” he said, hinting that the decision to conclude the series wasn’t taken lightly. “Cutting the cord before we lose the plot is crucial.”
A Grateful Reflection
Sitting down to discuss his time on Outer Banks, Stokes exudes a profound sense of gratitude. He recalls an intense moment from his audition where he believed he had flubbed his chances. “I thought I’d bombed the audition, and I sat on the curb sobbing,” he recalled. It was then that co-creator Jonas Pate offered him a lifeline: “If you can bring this right here back into the room, I promise it’s going to be magical.”
It’s a powerful moment—a reflection of the fears and doubts many face while striving for their dreams. Stokes, from being unsure about his future in Hollywood to now having a dedicated following, reminds us that persistence pays off. “There’s just so much gratitude because I was a kid who had a dream,” he shared.
Throughout the years, Stokes has not just formed professional bonds but has grown close to his co-stars, calling them “true family.” Their collective journey has resulted in memories that Stokes intends to cherish forever.
The Excitement of New Beginnings
While saying goodbye to Outer Banks is bittersweet, Stokes is eager to explore new creative avenues. With the conclusion of the show, he’s not just closing a chapter; he’s opening a new one. “I’ve never been more excited about where my career’s going next,” he said, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Taking inspiration from actors like Robert Pattinson, who navigated away from their teen roles into more sophisticated projects, Stokes is ready to prove he’s more than just the floppy-haired beach boy fans fell in love with. “All I want to do is challenge myself,” he explained.
His passion doesn’t stop there—Stokes is set to make his directorial debut next fall. “Writing my own script has been incredible,” he said. This new project is one of several ambitious plans on his horizon, leaving fans and future collaborators alike eagerly awaiting what he’ll create next.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
Stokes has found a second home in South Carolina, where Outer Banks was filmed. The sense of community in Charleston offers him a comfort that he never felt in Los Angeles. “It’s been so magical for them to accept a show so beautifully,” he shares, describing how locals greet him warmly, even calling him “Mr. Stokes.”
This sense of community is something special. It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, where anonymity is often the name of the game. Stokes juxtaposes his life in Charleston with his years spent in LA: “A small-town feel makes you realize that people appreciate what you do,” he said, his voice tinged with appreciation.
Looking Ahead
As the final season of Outer Banks gears up for its release in 2026, fans can expect a fitting conclusion to a story that’s captivated hearts. Stokes shared that the ending aligns precisely with what he was told when he joined the project, demonstrating remarkable foresight from the creators. “It’s beautiful to know that even though there were highs and lows, it’s ending just how I was told,” he mentioned.
With that certainty comes hope—hope that he’ll embrace new projects and challenges with the same spirit that has driven him thus far. From the teenage adventurer on screen to a promising director off-screen, Chase Stokes embodies the idea that endings are, in fact, new beginnings.
Why This Matters
What does all this mean for fans of the show and those who’ve been inspired by Stokes’s journey? It’s a telling reminder that life is a series of transitions, each defining who we are. For young viewers, his story illustrates the power of resilience and the significance of staying true to oneself—even when the going gets tough.
As Chase Stokes embarks on this new chapter, it ignites a curiosity in all of us to reflect on our paths. What challenges have molded you? What dreams remain undiscovered?
Outer Banks may be wrapping up, but Chase’s journey has just begun. One thing’s for sure: this isn’t the last we’ll hear from him. Keep an eye out—who knows what adventures await?
