**Chase Stokes Unveils New Look and Upcoming Project on ‘The Tonight Show’**
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Chase Stokes, widely recognised for his role as John B in the popular series *Outer Banks*, recently revealed some exciting personal and professional updates during his appearance on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*. The show aired on August 18, just two days before the premiere of the fifth and final season of *Outer Banks* on Netflix.
During the interview, the 33-year-old actor addressed his decision to grow out his beard, marking a departure from the clean-shaven look he has maintained since the show’s debut in April 2020. Stokes joked about this change, describing it as a sign that he has “grown up.” Host Jimmy Fallon complimented his new look, calling him a “stud” and inquiring whether the beard is related to his upcoming project.
Stokes confirmed that the facial hair transformation is indeed for a new role in AMC’s upcoming NASCAR drama series *Thunder Road*, where he stars alongside veteran actor Dennis Quaid. The programme, created by John Fusco of *Marco Polo* fame, is expected to be launched in 2027.
In *Thunder Road*, Stokes will portray Ronnie Whitlock, a character described as a “rebel with a lead foot” who once held promise as a professional racer before being sidelined due to his troublemaking. The series follows the Whitlock family across generations, exploring their deep-rooted ties to both stock car racing and the Southern hill country that shaped their legacy.
Speaking to Fallon, Stokes candidly admitted that he had no prior experience in racing, much like his initial lack of boating skills before filming *Outer Banks*. He expressed his determination to learn and embrace the challenges of his new role. “As actors, we just say ‘yes’ to everything,” he remarked with a laugh, adding, “I was just sent down the track… it was kind of badass.”
Quaid, aged 72, will take on the role of racing legend Duane Whitlock, a character known as “The Wrecking Ball.” His character is depicted as a towering figure who has successfully built an empire in racing, drawing on a legacy that originates from moonshine runs and dirt tracks.
With *Outer Banks* set to return for its final season, anticipation is high among fans for what is to come. The new season will push the beloved group, known as the Pogues—comprising John B (Stokes), Sarah Cameron (Madelyn Cline), Pope (Jonathan Daviss), Kiara (Madison Bailey), and Cleo (Carlacia Grant)—to their limits as they grapple with the tragic loss of a friend. The storyline picks up as the group faces this heart-breaking situation, attempting to seek vengeance for their fallen companion, JJ (Rudy Pankow).
The fifth season is poised to delve into the depths of grief, loyalty, and friendship while showcasing the characters at a critical turning point. With the tragic events occurring in Morocco, viewers will see how the Pogues rally together to navigate their conflicting emotions and drive the narrative forward.
As the premiere date of August 20 approaches, fans of *Outer Banks* eagerly await the explosive conclusion of this beloved series. Additionally, with Stokes’s new role in *Thunder Road*, it seems that the young actor is poised for further success in the entertainment industry as he takes on more diverse and challenging characters.
In summary, Chase Stokes’s transition both in appearance and through new roles signifies an exciting chapter in his career. As audiences prepare to say goodbye to the adventures of John B and his friends, they can also look forward to Stokes’s future endeavours in the world of racing. The actor’s evolving career is a testament to his talent and determination to embrace new opportunities in the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood.