Outer Banks Fans Suspect Rudy Pankow and Madison Bailey Used Stunt Doubles Amid Rumored Rift

Fans have sparked speculation about a possible rift between Rudy Pankow and Madison Bailey, the stars of Outer Banks. They portray the romantic couple JJ and Kiara in the popular Netflix series. The rumors intensified after viewers noticed potential stunt doubles in a crucial scene from the season four finale.

Many believe they have uncovered drama among the cast. Rumors of a feud emerged when fans noticed that in a pivotal moment of the episode, only one actor's face was visible while using body doubles. This scene featured Kiara resting her head on JJ's shoulder around a campfire with fellow Pogues, including characters Sarah Cameron, John B Routledge, Pope Heyward, and Cleo Anderson.

As the camera shifted to JJ and Kiara, fans noted it frequently focused on just one character's face. This led to speculation that the changes indicated tension on set between Rudy and Madison. However, multiple sources have reported that no feud exists between the two actors.

One user expressed disbelief on social media, saying, "The fact that Rudy and Madison refused to record it together shows their unprofessionalism." They reflected on how minor actions in the scene did not warrant such extraordinary measures, remarking it was merely a hug.

Another fan echoed similar sentiments, stating, "I’ve never seen actors put so much effort into avoiding each other." Despite these comments, others suggested the editing was an artistic decision. One individual highlighted that "the camera cuts suggest a change in focus," commonly used in film production.

Interestingly, fans remarked that regardless of any tension, those concerns might now be moot since JJ's shocking death at the finale's conclusion. One user humorously commented, "at least this won't happen anymore."

Despite these rumors circulating, neither actor has publicly commented on the stunt double theory. However, Rudy previously defended his relationship with Elaine Siemek, which began in 2021. He addressed negativity buzzing online about his dating life tied to Madison in an Instagram post. He stated, "To those who are creating such displeasure about the one I love, it’s time to stop."

Madison, who has been dating college basketball player Mariah Linney since 2020, has expressed that fans may admire JJ and Kiara. However, she insists those fictional connections should remain tied to the show itself. In a 2020 interview, she emphasized, "Rudy and JJ, and I and Kiara, are two different people. Let's keep the ships on the show."