Pogues, it’s official: Outer Banks Season 5 is the beginning of the end. Netflix’s sun-soaked treasure-hunting saga wraps up with its fifth and final season, and as of December 19, 2025—just days ago—production has officially wrapped in Charleston, South Carolina. The creators called it “bittersweet and surreal,” and fans are already bracing for an emotional rollercoaster. With filming complete after starting in June 2025 (including shoots in Croatia standing in for Portugal), the 10-episode finale is slated for a 2026 premiere—likely mid-to-late year, based on post-production timelines.

The latest buzz? Netflix dropped wrap photos celebrating the cast coming “home one final time,” but one face was painfully absent: JJ Maybank (Rudy Pankow). The gang’s back together… almost. Let’s break down everything we know, including the plot direction and that burning question: Will JJ return?

Production Wrap: A Bittersweet Milestone

Filming kicked off in June 2025, with the core cast reuniting in Charleston before heading overseas. On December 19, Netflix announced the wrap with emotional posts: “We’re bringing it on home one final time 🤙 production on OBX season 5 has officially wrapped!” The creators—Josh Pate, Jonas Pate, and Shannon Burke—teased a “wild ride” honoring the show’s roots.

No exact premiere date yet, but expect 2026. Previous seasons had similar timelines, so mid-year feels realistic.

The Cast Photos: The Pogues Reunited (Minus One)

The recent wrap and earlier production photos show the surviving Pogues laughing on set, posing in marshes, and channeling that signature vibe. Highlights include group shots with Chase Stokes (John B), Madelyn Cline (Sarah), Madison Bailey (Kiara), Jonathan Daviss (Pope), and Carlacia Grant (Cleo)—plus Drew Starkey (Rafe) stepping into a bigger role.

But JJ’s absence hits hard. Early first-look images from June (when production started) already hinted at a shifted dynamic, with Rafe filling the frame where JJ once stood. Fans immediately noticed and mourned the gap.

Returning Cast:

Chase Stokes as John B Routledge
Madelyn Cline as Sarah Cameron
Madison Bailey as Kiara Carrera
Jonathan Daviss as Pope Heyward
Carlacia Grant as Cleo
Drew Starkey as Rafe Cameron (expanded role)
Austin North as Topper Thornton
Fiona Palomo as Sofia

Promoted to series regulars: Cullen Moss (Sheriff Shoupe) and J. Anthony Crane (Chandler Groff)—setting up major endgame drama.

Will JJ Return? The Painful Truth

Sadly, no—Rudy Pankow will not return as JJ in Season 5. JJ’s shocking death in the Season 4 finale (stabbed by his biological father, Groff) was planned from early in the series, per creators. It’s a “hard but necessary” pivot for redemption and revenge themes, honoring JJ’s reckless, loyal spirit.

Rumors of Pankow spotted on set sparked brief hope for flashbacks or cameos, but official confirmations shut it down: No return scenes mentioned, and he’s absent from all cast lists/photos. The story focuses on the Pogues grieving and avenging him—Kiara’s journey especially highlighted.

Madelyn Cline called filming “different” without Pankow: “There’s a part of the dynamic that isn’t there anymore.” The loss redefines the group forever

Plot Teases: Revenge, Redemption, and One Last Hunt

Season 5 picks up right after Season 4—no big time jump. The Pogues vow revenge on Groff for killing JJ and stealing the Blue Crown. Expect intense showdowns, global chases, fractured alliances (Rafe’s role grows), and emotional fallout.

Themes: Friendship, sacrifice, what the treasure truly costs. Creators promise their “best yet”—a fitting, heartbreaking sendoff.

As Christmas 2025 wraps up, the wait for 2026 begins. The Pogues’ final chapter is locked… and it’s going to shatter us. P4L—one last time.