Netflix officially announced that production for Outer Banks Season 5 has wrapped, sharing a heartwarming image of the main cast, Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Madison Bailey, Jonathan Daviss, Drew Starkey, and Carlacia Grant laughing and posing together on set.
The photo, released by Netflix’s official accounts, captures the Pogues in a marsh outside Charleston, South Carolina, echoing the show’s signature locations and the camaraderie that has defined the series since its debut.
This image has quickly gone viral, with fans celebrating the group’s enduring friendship and the anticipation of the show’s emotional conclusion.
Filming for the final season began in June 2025 and took the cast and crew to both South Carolina and Croatia, with scenes shot in Dubrovnik and surrounding areas before returning to the United States for final shots.
The journey to wrap production was emotional, with cast members sharing their feelings about saying goodbye to the characters and the places that have become a second home. Madison Bailey, who plays Kiara, described the experience as bittersweet, noting how every location felt like a farewell to a chapter of her life.
The production team made sure to honor the show’s roots, using both real locations and practical effects to maintain the authenticity that fans have come to love.
Most of the main cast is returning for this last adventure, including Chase Stokes as John B, Madelyn Cline as Sarah, Madison Bailey as Kiara, Jonathan Daviss as Pope, Carlacia Grant as Cleo, Drew Starkey as Rafe, and Austin North as Topper.
However, Rudy Pankow, who played JJ, will not be part of the season after his character died in the previous season’s finale.
The creators, Josh Pate, Shannon Burke, and Jonas Pate, have stated that JJ’s death was always part of their plan, and the final season will honor his memory by focusing on themes of friendship, sacrifice, and revenge.
The decision to write out JJ’s character was met with mixed reactions from fans, but the showrunners have emphasized that the story will be handled with respect and care.
Emotional Themes and Storylines in the Final Season
Season 5 is set to explore the fallout from JJ’s death, with Kiara especially driven by a desire for vengeance against Chandler Groff, JJ’s biological father. The creators have promised a deeply personal story , with the Pogues’ quest for treasure now intertwined with their need for closure and justice.
The emotional weight of losing JJ will be a major thread throughout the season, shaping the group’s decisions and relationships. The showrunners have stated that the final season will be more than just a treasure hunt; it will be a story about friendship, loyalty, and the impact of loss.
John B and Sarah’s relationship will also face new challenges, with rumors suggesting Sarah may be pregnant and the couple preparing for parenthood.
Outer Banks Season 5 (Credit: Netflix)
The show will continue to follow the Pogues’ search for Blackbeard’s treasure and the Blue Crown, but the stakes are higher than ever, with every decision carrying the weight of their grief and determination.
The creators have teased that the f inal season will include dramatic twists, intense action, and heartfelt moments as the Pogues confront their past and look toward the future.
New and returning characters will add depth to the story. Julia Antonelli will reprise her role as Wheezie Cameron, and Sofia (Fiona Palomo) will return, bringing unresolved tension with Rafe. The showrunners have promised that every character arc will be wrapped up, giving fans a satisfying conclusion to the Pogues’ journey.
The final season will also introduce new faces and challenges, ensuring that the story remains fresh and engaging until the very end.
Production Insights and What to Expect in 2026
Filming for Outer Banks Season 5 wrapped in December 2025, with the final scenes shot in South Carolina after earlier shoots in Croatia.
The production team utilized a mix of iconic locations, from the marshes and beaches of the Lowcountry to the historic streets of Dubrovnik, ensuring the show’s visual style remains as vibrant and adventurous as ever.
The attention to detail in both set design and cinematography has been praised by fans and critics alike, with many noting that the show’s locations feel like characters in their own right.
The season is expected to premiere in 2026, with Netflix yet to announce an exact release date . The creators have emphasized that the final season will be a “wild ride,” with high stakes, emotional twists, and a focus on closure for every character.
Fans can look forward to global travel, intense action, and heartfelt moments as the Pogues set out on their last mission.
Outer Banks Season 5 marks the end of a beloved series, but it also celebrates the journey that brought fans from treasure hunts to deep friendships and unforgettable adventures. The heartwarming image of the cast together is a fitting tribute to the show’s legacy, reminding viewers that the Pogues’ bond will always remain unbroken.
Lanterns is set to premiere in early 2026 as HBO’s flagship entry into the DCU, promising a bold new take on the Green Lantern mythos. With an all-star cast and a unique blend of superhero action and detective storytelling, the show is poised to become a standout in the genre.
A Stellar Cast and Grounded Storytelling
The series centers on two Green Lanterns: Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, and John Stewart, portrayed by Aaron Pierre. Their partnership forms the backbone of the show, with Chandler bringing a seasoned, stoic presence and Pierre embodying the earnestness and determination of a rookie Lantern.
The cast also features Kelly Macdonald as Sheriff Kerry, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Garret Dillahunt as William Macon, Poorna Jagannathan as Zoe, and Nicole Ari Parker as Bernadette Stewart, each adding depth and nuance to the narrative.
Lanterns takes a grounded approach, focusing on Hal and John as intergalactic cops investigating a murder in Nebraska. The plot unfolds as a detective mystery, with the two Lanterns uncovering not only the truth behind the crime but also more serious cosmic threats and personal reckonings.
This “True Detective”-style format marks a departure from the typical superhero fare, emphasizing character development and interpersonal dynamics over flashy action sequences.
The casting choices reflect a commitment to authenticity and diversity. Aaron Pierre, known for his roles in “The Underground Railroad” and “House of the Dragon,” brings a fresh energy to John Stewart, a character who has historically been underrepresented in live-action adaptations.
Kyle Chandler, with his background in both drama and action, lends a sense of gravitas to Hal Jordan, portraying him as a veteran hero grappling with his own legacy.
The supporting cast, including Kelly Macdonald as the skeptical local sheriff and Nathan Fillion as the brash Guy Gardner, further enriches the narrative, creating a web of relationships that drive the story forward.
Production Insights and Creative Vision
Chris Mundy, known for his work on “True Detective: Night Country” and “Ozark,” serves as showrunner and co-writer, collaborating with Damon Lindelof (“Watchmen”) and Tom King (“Supergirl”). Their combined experience in prestige television ensures a high standard of storytelling and production quality.
James Hawes, director of acclaimed series like “Slow Horses” and “Black Mirror,” helms the first two episodes, setting the tone for the series with his signature visual style and atmospheric direction.
Filming took place in Los Angeles from February to July 2025, with a wrap party celebrated by cast and crew in July, signaling the completion of production. The series will comprise eight episodes, each contributing to a cohesive narrative arc that balances mystery, action, and character development.
The production team has emphasized a commitment to realism, with practical effects and location shooting enhancing the show’s grounded feel.
Lanterns (Credit: HBO Max)
The creative team behind Lanterns has made it clear that their goal is to tell a story that stands on its own, rather than relying on extensive knowledge of previous Green Lantern adaptations.
This approach is designed to make the series accessible to new viewers while still rewarding longtime fans with Easter eggs and references to the wider DCU. The show’s writers have also stressed the importance of character-driven storytelling, ensuring that the emotional journeys of Hal, John, and their allies are at the heart of the series.
Plot and Character Dynamics
Lanterns follows Hal Jordan and John Stewart as they investigate the murder of Alan Scott, the Golden Age Green Lantern, in a small Nebraska town. The case leads them to confront shape-shifting aliens and uncover a conspiracy that threatens both Earth and the wider Green Lantern Corps.
The show explores themes of legacy, responsibility, and the weight of stepping into a hero’s shoes, particularly as John Stewart navigates his new role and Hal grapples with his past.
The dynamic between Hal and John is central to the series, with Hal mentoring John while also confronting his own demons. Their partnership is tested as they face both external threats and internal conflicts, making their journey as much about personal growth as it is about solving the central mystery.
The series also delves into the broader implications of the Green Lantern Corps, exploring the challenges of maintaining order across the universe and the personal toll it takes on its members.
The supporting characters play a crucial role in the narrative, with Sheriff Kerry providing a grounded, human perspective on the events unfolding in her town. Guy Gardner, portrayed by Nathan Fillion, brings a sense of humor and unpredictability, serving as a foil to Hal and John’s more serious approach.
William Macon, Zoe, and Bernadette Stewart each have their own arcs, adding layers of complexity to the story and ensuring that the series remains engaging throughout its run.
What to Expect in 2026
Lanterns is set to debut in early 2026, with HBO positioning it as a major event in the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. The series promises a fresh take on the Green Lantern story, blending superhero action with the suspense and intrigue of a detective drama.
With its talented cast, experienced creative team, and unique approach to the genre, Lanterns is poised to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
As the DCU continues to expand, Lanterns stands out as a bold experiment in superhero storytelling, offering a grounded, character-driven narrative that sets a new standard for the genre.
Whether you’re drawn to the mystery, the action, or the characters, Lanterns is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of superhero television.
David Harbour’s decision to skip the Stranger Things finale celebration has left fans and industry insiders wondering about the reasons behind his absence, especially after recent reports of erratic conduct.
What Happened: The Incident and Fallout
David Harbour was set to attend the Stranger Things: The Final Season Celebration at New York City’s Paley Center, an event meant to honor the cast and crew as the series wraps up its final chapter.
However, just days before the event, Harbour’s name was removed from the official guest list, with the Paley Center citing a “scheduling conflict” as the reason for his absence.
This explanation came amid growing rumors and media coverage of a strange incident involving Harbour at a gastropub in Encinitas, California, on December 13.
Video footage from the incident shows Harbour exiting the venue with a patron’s hat, yelling at someone to “f—— get me,” and engaging in a heated exchange with the bar patron, who later retrieved his hat and returned inside.
While there was no physical altercation, the exchange was described as tense and unusual, with witnesses noting that Harbour appeared agitated and erratic. Sources close to the situation suggest that Harbour’s actions may be linked to his ongoing struggles with bipolar disorder, a condition he has been open about in the past.
The incident quickly made headlines, with outlets speculating that Harbour’s absence from the event was directly tied to the controversy. His publicist has not provided a detailed statement, and the official reason remains a scheduling conflict.
Harbour’s co-star Millie Bobby Brown also pulled out of the event, with her team citing a recent injury.
Both absences have fueled further speculation, especially as Harbour has been in the spotlight for other reasons, including a highly publicized divorce from Lily Allen and previous rumors about alleged on-set conflicts with Brown.
Personal Struggles and Industry Scrutiny
Harbour’s recent public struggles are not isolated incidents. He has been candid about his bipolar disorder, discussing how it affects his life and career.
In interviews, he has emphasized the importance of managing his condition and protecting his mental health, especially given the pressures of fame and the demands of working on a high-profile show like Stranger Things.
The incident at the gastropub is believed to be a manifestation of the stress he has been under, both from his work schedule and the intense public scrutiny of his personal life.
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about mental health in the entertainment industry. Many fans and commentators have expressed concern for Harbour’s well-being, calling for empathy and understanding rather than judgment.
Stranger Things Season 5 (Credit: Netflix)
At the same time, the incident has reignited debates about how celebrities are treated when they face personal challenges, with some arguing that the public and media should be more supportive and less quick to sensationalize their struggles.
What’s Next for Harbour and Stranger Things
As Stranger Things approaches its finale, Harbour’s absence from the celebration has raised questions about his future involvement with the franchise. Harbour has played Jim Hopper, one of the show’s central characters, since its debut, and his departure from the event has left fans wondering how his character’s story will be resolved.
The show’s creators and co-stars have not commented directly on Harbour’s absence, but the situation underscores the challenges that come with ending a long-running series and dealing with the personal issues of its stars.
The controversy surrounding Harbour’s behavior has also highlighted the pressures faced by actors in the public eye, especially those who have been open about their mental health struggles.
As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with these issues, Harbour’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and support for those who are struggling.
In the end, the situation surrounding David Harbour’s absence from the Stranger Things finale event is a complex mix of personal challenges, public scrutiny, and industry pressures.
As fans await the final season of the show, the focus remains on how Harbour’s story will be told and how the industry responds to the broader issues his experience has brought to light.
