The highly anticipated fifth and final season of Netflix’s hit series “Outer Banks” is set to launch on August 20, 2026. In an event titled “Pogues For Life: A Fan Farewell,” held at The Ford Theatre in Los Angeles on August 15, leading actress Madelyn Cline opened up about her understanding of the show’s unique terminology—particularly the term “Pogue.”
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During a discussion moderated by Josh Horowitz, host of the “Happy, Sad, Confused” podcast, Cline revealed that she did not grasp the meaning of “Pogue” until the third season of the series. The term distinguishes the working-class characters in the show from the wealthier residents known as “Kooks.” Cline shared her initial confusion, stating, “I didn’t know what a Pogue was until season three, until [screenwriters] Jonas [Pate] and Josh [Pate] explained that Pogue is a baked fish. And I was like, got it. The past couple seasons make a lot of sense.”
In the context of “Outer Banks,” the “Pogues” and “Kooks” represent starkly defined social classes. The term “Pogue” originates from the low-value pogie fish, which reflects how those with wealth perceive the less affluent residents of the coastal North Carolina town featured in the series. According to protagonist John B, portrayed by Chase Stokes, the Pogues are considered “the throwaway fish” and are described as “the lowest member of the food chain.”
While Cline was navigating her understanding of these terms, fellow cast member Madison Bailey, who plays Kiara, found the script instantly recognisable. “I’m from North Carolina, so when I read ‘Pogues and Kooks’ for the first time, I was like, these are weird little words, but I know exactly who we’re talking about,” she remarked, highlighting the show’s authentic representation of her home state.
At the farewell event, a number of cast members joined Cline and Bailey, including Chase Stokes, Jonathan Daviss (Pope), Carlacia Grant (Cleo), and Drew Starkey (Rafe Cameron), as well as the show’s co-creators, the Pate brothers. The genuine camaraderie among the cast was evident as they discussed their experiences and emotional investments in the show, particularly as it nears its conclusion.
The synopsis for Season 5 reveals that the Pogues are facing a critical turning point following the tragic loss of one of their own, JJ, during an adventure in Morocco. This emotional weight has resonated deeply with the cast, who expressed vulnerability as they prepare to bid farewell to their characters and the world they have come to know.
Grant expressed her own struggles with the show’s finale, sharing, “I cried through glam. It’s a fact. I did. I’m not well.” Her sentiments echoed those of Daviss, who reflected on his journey since the show began: “I grew up on this show. I was a teenager when we started and now I’m 26. I made a lot of family on this show. It’s tough.”
As the countdown to the premiere continues, both fans and cast members alike are grappling with a mixture of nostalgia and excitement. Despite the series coming to an end, its impact on the audience and the lives of the actors will likely linger long after the final credits roll.
With the release set for August 20, “Outer Banks” promises to deliver a season packed with the same adventure and drama that has captivated audiences over its run.