‘Outer Banks’ Stars on Navigating Their Public and Private Lives Online: “It Can Be Really Cruel”

‘Outer Banks’ Stars on Navigating Their Public and Private Lives Online: “It Can Be Really Cruel”

As a long-time gamer and observer of the entertainment industry, I can’t help but empathize with these Outer Banks stars as they navigate the complexities of social media and public life. It’s fascinating to see how their fictional personas have transcended the screen and become a part of real-life discourse, for better or worse.


Although actors Chase Stokes, Jonathan Daviss (JD), Rudy Pankow, and Drew Starkey are basking in the fame that “Outer Banks” has brought them, their journey isn’t entirely smooth sailing. They continue to face hurdles along the way.

Prior to the release of the fourth season on Netflix, the actors shared insights about managing their online personas and dealing with the downsides of social media in a joint interview for the cover story of Cosmopolitan.

Daviss stated that each generation faces a violation of privacy when they become public figures. As an artist, one would hope for people to focus on the art and allow personal identity to remain private. However, it’s more about trying to balance what parts of oneself should stay hidden versus what can be shared on social media.

Finding this equilibrium isn’t always straightforward, particularly when internet bullies begin to attack your close ones. In 2021, Pankow himself had to openly defend his partner, Elaine Siemek, due to the cyberbullying she faced.

Pankow expressed his viewpoint that many individuals often blend their personal beliefs with a storyline, and they may unfairly target someone who doesn’t deserve it. He finds this situation unfortunate and challenging, and he regrets that he has no power to change it. “Nobody should experience something like that,” Pankow added, explaining why social media can be tricky because sometimes it fosters a show’s narrative as if it were real life. For example, what we see on screen is meant for entertainment, but some people might interpret it literally.

Stokes emphasized the importance of distinguishing between “imaginary personas” and their “real-life creators.” He further pointed out that nowadays it’s common to encounter both a TikTok portrayal of a fictitious character, as well as one based on reality. This blurring of lines is particularly noticeable in the present day.

One reason Starkey keeps a low profile on social media is because it can sometimes be unkind. As a very empathetic individual, he finds such environments challenging.

Regardless of any drawbacks, the online communities these artists have created with their fans remain filled with numerous benefits. According to Pankow, it’s heartwarming to realize that “so many people value and admire what you’ve produced.

However, it can sometimes prove difficult for an actor when the bulk of their fans are connected to a particular role they’ve played. As Starkey put it, “Your bond with the audience is deeply tied to these characters we’ve portrayed,” which can make leaving that universe feel more daunting and frightening.

The first half of season four for the show “Outer Banks,” featuring actresses like Madelyn Cline, Madison Bailey, and Carlacia Grant, will be available on Netflix starting October 10th. The remaining part two will premiere on November 7th.

Read More

Sorry. No data so far.

2024-10-02 04:24