The Pogues Are Stronger Than Ever In Outer Banks Season 4 Part 1

The Pogues are back and this time they’ve got everything to lose in Outer Banks Season 4 Part 1.

For three seasons, we’ve watched them flirt with success, only to have it ripped from their hands again and again. But through it all, their love and faith in each other has never wavered. I wouldn’t call the Pogues fearless, but they’re brave because they’re committed. They’ll follow each other to the ends of the earth no matter the risks.

Season 4 takes us back to what made everyone fall in love with the Pogues in the first place — togetherness. Season 3 had the crew split up and, while it was heartwarming to see John B reunite with his dad, the magic of Outer Banks lies in its themes of friendship, community, and that ride-or-die love. By the end of Season 3, we fast-forwarded 18 months after their first real win. Sure, they lost some family connections along the way, but, for once, they had something to show for it. And most importantly, they still had each other.

Remember that island? Or as JJ (Rudy Pankow) calls it, Poguelandia? Well, after finally scoring some actual gold, they bought their own slice of The Cut — the Maybank property — and turned it into their home. But, in typical JJ fashion, his impulsiveness (and inability to listen to Pope) led them to pay way more than they should have. Still, the Pogues never let something like that stop them. They’ve built their own little world — a home, a dock, and even a bait, tackle, and charter shop. And what do they name it? Poguelandia 2.0, of course. They were all set to live the simple life.

But, as we know, John B (Chase Stokes), Sarah (Madelyn Cline), Kiara (Madison Bailey), JJ, Pope (Jonathan Daviss), and Cleo (Carlacia Grant) can’t stay out of trouble for long. Give six teenagers a million dollars and no structure, and you can bet chaos will follow. JJ’s recklessness leaves them nearly broke and they jump at the chance to take on Wes Genrette’s (David Jensen) job offer to recover Blackbeard’s treasure. Sounds easy, right? Well, if we’ve learned anything about treasure hunting in the OBX, it’s that there’s always someone else after it too. Before they know it, the Pogues are in way over their heads, facing unseen dangers that might just be their biggest challenge yet.

This season, the characters are stronger than ever, especially John B and Sarah. They’ve been through more than most couples should ever have to, but they’ve come out of it with a sense of peace and understanding. They’re madly in love and they’ve grown into a solid team. Their bond is unshakable and, this time around, not even Topper (Austin North) or Rafe (Drew Starkey) can throw them off track. They’re the backbone of the Pogues and everyone looks to them to make the big decisions. Chase Stokes and Madelyn Cline have found a rhythm, keeping John B and Sarah from becoming the kind of boring couple we’ve seen on other shows. Their relationship has evolved and this is their strongest phase yet.

Then there’s JJ and Kiara, finally official. It’s been a long time coming. They’re ride or die for each other, and while it might not make sense to everyone — especially Kiara’s parents — we get it. They balance each other’s extremes and the rest of the Pogues understand their connection. Kiara sees JJ for who he really is and JJ would do anything for her. Sure, we’re still waiting for him to say “I love you,” but we all know he feels it. Their bond is unbreakable, even if they don’t always agree. With JJ’s dad back in the picture and his Kook heritage coming to light, he’s going to need Kiara now more than ever.

As for Pope and Cleo, their relationship is still new, but it works. Pope’s always been the brains of the group, but this season, we’re seeing a softer side. He’s quick to call Cleo “babe” or “baby” and, while their affection is subtle, it’s clear. They didn’t necessarily need to rush into things just because everyone else did, but there’s definitely room for their relationship to grow. After Lightner (Rigo Sanchez) killed Terrance (Terence Rosemore) in his return and kidnapped Cleo, she’s out for revenge and Pope understands her drive. He’s been there before — not in the same way, but he knows her light and her darkness. Together, they’re about to face some serious challenges, especially with Pope trapped underground with Sarah in a cave that’s rapidly filling with water.

Of course, we can’t forget the other characters. Topper is becoming more frustrating with each season. Yes, Sarah messed with his feelings and his anger is understandable, but he’s failing to think for himself. His new love interest isn’t exactly a great influence either. On the other hand, Rafe’s character growth feels sudden but makes sense. He’s still trapped in the Kook vs. Pogue world, but he seems eager for balance and family. His new business dealings with Hollis Robinson (Brianna Brown), however, may break the progress he’s made. Hollis is bribing Sofia (Fiona Palomo) to convince Rafe to work with her and, while Rafe doesn’t know about Sofia’s involvement yet, this revelation could send him into a spiral. As we know, he values trust, and this betrayal could undo everything he’s trying to rebuild. Sofia, who wasn’t originally on board, changes her mind after hearing Rafe say he’d never date a Pogue — a lie he told to save face with Topper and the Kooks. The Kook vs. Pogue drama doesn’t matter to Rafe anymore, but, if he doesn’t stand up for himself, he risks losing everything, including Sofia. It’s looking as though Sofia may play a big part in Rafe’s story.

Season 4 of Outer Banks is living up to the hype. It’s fast-paced, full of heart, and packed with those stunning views we love. The season kicks off strong, giving fans exactly what we missed in Season 3.

Outer Banks Part 1 is out now on Netflix, with Part 2 returning November 7.