*contains spoilers
The core personality of “Outer Banks” is characterized by the colorful beach wear, iconic music, and tight friendships. Season four was recently released and watched by millions of viewers around the world. However, in comparison to the strong writing and complex character development of the previous seasons, season four fell flat in more ways than one.
While season four succeeded with strong pacing and interesting character relationships, the stagnant character development and mess of plotlines caused this season to be a major downgrade from previous seasons.
While multiple storylines can create complexity and intrigue if done properly, the writers of “Outer Banks” were not successful for this season. Each of the many main characters had their own separate storylines in addition to the main plot, causing this season to feel very rushed.
In regards to the treasure-hunting of this season, it felt very repetitive to season three. The characters followed the same steps to find the treasure: find ancient, mysterious clues, break the law to solve said clues, and then travel to another country to find the treasure. The formulaic approach the writers took this season felt unrealistic and predictable, rather than creative.
While the storylines weren’t poorly-written, the sheer amount of storylines in such a short time stretched this season too thin.
On the contrary, one of the best parts of this was the relationships within the group of main characters. Throughout the whole season, the scenes featuring the group-bonding helped show the true roots of the show. Through celebration and fights, the interactions and relationships within the group of main characters continues to be one of the strongest parts of “Outer Banks.”
Season four showed a surprising lack of character development. In prior seasons, nearly all the characters matured, and some even experienced redemption arcs. Characters such as JJ and Topper, who had developed in previous seasons, became stagnant and predictable.
One of the most controversial aspects of season four is the ending. The death of one of the main characters, JJ, shocked and saddened long-time viewers of “Outer Banks.” With rumors about behind-the-scenes conflicts between actors, viewers have questioned whether the death was meaningful to the plot, or simply convenient to the actors.
No matter the reason for the death, the cause of death didn’t feel important enough for such an important character in the series. A more monumental death would be expected for such a critical character to the series, and since this was not the case, it presented another weakness for season four.
Although season four was able to do some things really well, the amount of critique for this season begs the question about whether one of Netflix’s most popular shows is finally going downhill.
Season five was announced on Nov. 4. The creators of, Josh Pate, Jonas Pate, and Shannon Burke, announced that Season five would be the final season of “Outer Banks.” Production is tentatively scheduled to begin in the Spring of 2025.
With Season five being the grand finale of this series, “Outer Banks” is going to have to make some serious changes in order to end this iconic series on a high note.
