Throughout the three exhilarating seasons of “Outer Banks” that have graced our screens so far, the core characters have evolved drastically in a remarkably brief timeframe. The show, pulsating with action and pace, never comes to a standstill. Yet, it generously affords ample room for the character development of each protagonist. Every character, however loathsome within the context of the series, is brought to life expertly by their respective actors.
Having spent sufficient time with the characters now, there is ample opportunity to assess the popularity of each protagonist, and determine who is deserving of their onscreen fate. Amidst frequent occurrences of betrayal and sabotage both by and against the main characters, certain individuals emerge who are ready to go to any lengths to attain their objectives. Evaluating their actions and subsequent fallout, here are the main characters of “Outer Banks,” ranked according to likability.
9. Ward
Inevitably occupying the last spot on this list is Ward. Initially, portrayed by Charles Esten, Ward seemed a harmless ultra-wealthy man, a mere class disparity for John B. and his friends. But, as the truth of his unquenchable thirst for the treasure unfolded, the dominoes began to topple, intensifying the universal disdain for Ward.
Esten’s stellar performance contributes to the dislike for Ward. His acting range elicits sympathy for the character occasionally, but it’s Ward’s relentless quest for the gold that casts him as an exceptional villain. The unspeakable acts he commits against the group, including his daughter Sarah, firmly place him as the most unlikable main character.
8. Rafe
It’s unfortunate that Rafe finds himself so far down on this list. His violent, desire-driven persona was the unfortunate outcome of his quest to prove himself to Ward. Drew Starkey gives an exemplary performance as Rafe, creating a villain brimming with complexity.
Rafe’s darker side emerges when he shoots Sheriff Peterkin at the end of Season 1, aiming to prevent Ward’s arrest. This act instigates a cascade of trouble for everyone, including John B.’s framing and subsequent escape from the country, and Ward’s coverup for his son’s crime. Consequently, Rafe is fully consumed by greed and ambition, leading him to make a series of terrible decisions with significant ramifications.
7. Topper
In Season 1, Topper (Austin North) is depicted as a stark contrast to John B., primarily in terms of class division. As a prominent Kook (the affluent class) on the island, he carries the typical disdain for the Pogues. His unjustifiable hatred for individuals like John B. and JJ instantly leaves a bitter taste in viewers’ mouths.
However, Topper embarks on a redemption journey as the seasons progress, fueled by his profound love for Sarah. He assists John B. and Sarah in evading the police at the end of Season 1 when he owed John nothing. Despite his personal convictions and actions holding him back from ranking higher on this list, Topper’s viewpoints and actions indicate some redeeming qualities.
6. Cleo
The only factor that prevents Cleo (Carlacia Grant) from ranking higher on this list is her relatively brief screen time compared to the rest of the cast. Introduced in Season 2 as initially antagonistic to John B. and Sarah, she eventually warms up to the group’s adventurous spirit and becomes a full-time Pogue by the season’s end.
Cleo proves her loyalty by consistently supporting the Pogues, often grounding them with her honest, realistic views. As the series advances into Season 4 and potentially beyond, Cleo will undoubtedly play a crucial role for her newfound family, increasing her chances of ranking higher as one of the most likable characters in the series.
5. Kiara
Kiara (Madison Bailey), one of the original Pogues from Season 1, has had substantial screen time, making her one of the most familiar faces in the show. Born into a wealthier family than the rest of the group, Kiara has repeatedly risked her future to protect her friends, earning several moments of audience support.
The show devotes substantial focus to the inter-relationships among the teenage characters. Fans were disappointed with how Kiara managed her relationship with Pope, leading him to falsely believe their friendship might blossom into something more, especially given her undeniable chemistry with JJ.
4. John B.
Positioning the lead protagonist in the middle of the list may be contentious, but Chase Stoke’s character John B. has had several moments where he let his emotions dictate his actions. John B. plays a pivotal role in maintaining group unity, with his friends willing to sacrifice anything for him. Audiences have built a strong rapport with John B. through his numerous heroic moments and his determination to uplift his friends’ financial status.
However, John B.’s decision-making has been questionable at times. When Ward ‘dies,’ John B., instead of comforting Sarah, seems to revel in her father’s presumed demise. In Season 3, he devotes all his time to his father, causing Sarah to doubt their relationship. Further rubbing salt in her wound, he bluntly reminds her of the absence of a father figure in her life, marking one of the harshest moments for Sarah in the series.
3. Sarah
Throughout the series, Sarah (Madelyn Cline) transitions from a princess-like figure hailing from one of the island’s richest families to a full-blown Pogue, repeatedly proving her loyalty to John B. and his crew. From the beginning, it’s clear that Sarah wants to break free from the predetermined life plan laid out for her. Despite initial resistance from JJ, Kiara, and Pope, Sarah wins everyone’s trust, risking her life and going against her family for her beliefs.
Her major slipups, such as cheating with Topper, are moments she regrets but ultimately prevent her from ranking higher on the list. However, Sarah always returns to her true loyalties and finds the strength to distance herself from her corrupt family.
2. Pope
Pope (Jonathan Davies), one of the show’s most personal and complex characters, has faced many personal trials. With both parents in his life and an academic gift, Pope comes from a solid family foundation. One of his defining moments was abandoning his scholarship interview mid-way after realizing something crucial that could aid the Pogues in their treasure hunt. His sacrifice shows his deep care for his friends.
Another aspect that ranks Pope high on the list is his consistent authenticity and his unyielding support for the Pogues, even when outside events start to overwhelm him. Despite the fallout of his relationship with Kiara, he remains as loyal as ever. Seeing him find a spark with Cleo in Season 3 was a joyous moment, given Pope’s well-deserved popularity.
1. JJ
JJ (Rudy Pankow) is the undisputed fan-favorite of the show. Bearing an intense personal burden due to his abusive father, he stands out as a character with deep underlying pain. Despite his dire domestic situation, his love and concern for his best friends, particularly John B., prompts JJ to put their safety first and do whatever it takes to help them.
Witnessing his struggles worsen due to his father, while he remains committed to his friends’ wellbeing, makes JJ an incredibly likable character. Although his closeness with Kiara irks Pope, JJ always ensures his actions don’t hurt Pope. JJ’s unshakeable self
less loyalty to the Pogues and his clear, no-nonsense approach to life make him the most likable character on the show.
Throughout the “Outer Banks” series, we’ve seen JJ endure his hardships with resilience and stoicism. He never seeks sympathy from others but shoulders his burdens alone, a trait that deeply resonates with audiences. Even in moments where he might veer into reckless behavior due to his turbulent home life, JJ’s heart always seems to be in the right place.
The complex, nuanced portrayal by Rudy Pankow is another significant reason why audiences have fallen in love with JJ. His performance enables viewers to empathize with JJ’s struggles and root for him to overcome his circumstances. The way JJ cares for his friends, particularly John B., showcases his admirable, steadfast loyalty.
In the end, the charming, tough, and loyal JJ tops this ranking due to his profound loyalty, his resilience in facing personal hardship, and the consistent authenticity he demonstrates throughout the series.
As the show moves forward into Season 4 and potentially beyond, the dynamics of this ranking may change. Each season has presented new twists and turns that have challenged these characters, tested their relationships, and reshaped our perceptions of them. As “Outer Banks” continues to evolve, so too will our connection with these characters, and we look forward to seeing where their journeys take them next.
