Actor J. Anthony Crane recently addressed Rudy Pankow‘s possible return as JJ Maybank in Outer Banks Season 5. Crane, who plays the villain Chandler Groff, shared insight into fan speculation and the show’s future direction.

Is Rudy Pankow Leaving 'Outer Banks?' Why JJ's Death Was 'Always' The Plan

J. Anthony Crane talks Rudy Pankow’s return as JJ in Outer Banks Season 5

In an exclusive interview with The Direct, J. Anthony Crane, who plays Chandler Groff in Outer Banks, addressed the speculation surrounding Rudy Pankow’s potential return as JJ Maybank in Season 5.

Crane stated, “I mean, I hear what you’re saying. I think there’s some speculation about it, and people are right to speculate because a story like that ends abruptly.” Crane confirmed that he will return for the final season but did not confirm JJ’s fate.

In the Season 4 finale, JJ claimed Blackbeard’s Blue Crown but soon faced Groff, who revealed he was JJ’s father. Groff stabbed JJ after he traded the Crown to save Kiara, sparking fan speculation about JJ’s return through flashbacks or visions. Addressing this, Crane stated, “I think they want to tell the story without having to be bound by the present timeline. If they feel like it would be helpful to do that, I’m sure that they will.”

Chandler Groff Might Be the Key to Resurrecting JJ on Outer Banks—Here's Why Fans Think Pankow Could Return

Crane explained how a JJ cameo could fit into the narrative, suggesting it may occur through a memory or moment essential to the plot. “Maybe there’s another scene where we need to have some memory, or something like that tells something that needs to be needed at the time. It’s really great to speculate.” He clarified that the decision is up to the writers, saying, “Nobody’s consulting me.”

Outer Banks co-creator Jonas Pate previously spoke about JJ’s death, calling it a “powerful way to end” the character’s journey. He emphasized that major character deaths should have meaning, similar to Ward Cameron’s fate in Season 3. Pate highlighted that JJ’s sacrifice to save his friends was a pivotal moment and gave his story a proper conclusion.

Crane confirmed that no plans for Rudy Pankow’s return have been shared with him. However, he said, “It’d be good to see,” leaving room for speculation about JJ’s influence on the plot. Since Crane’s character, Chandler Groff, is the main antagonist in Season 5, JJ’s death will likely drive the Pogues to seek revenge.

Seasons 1-4 of Outer Banks are currently streaming on Netflix, with Season 5’s release date pending.