Everything You Need to Know About Chase Stokes

Who Is Chase Stokes? Netflix Star and John B of Outer Banks

Chase Stokes is an American actor best known for playing John B. Routledge in Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks (2020–present).

Here are the key facts at a glance:

From small TV roles to Netflix stardom, Stokes built his career the hard way — one episode at a time. He even almost passed on the Outer Banks audition entirely, reportedly dismissing the concept before eventually reading for the role that would change everything.

Now, with Season 5 of Outer Banks arriving as the final season in 2025 and two new films on the horizon, Chase Stokes is stepping into a bold new chapter — both in front of and behind the camera.

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Early Life and Education

Before he was the leader of the Pogues, James Alexander Chase Stokes led a life that saw him moving across the East Coast. Born on September 16, 1992, in Annapolis, Maryland, Chase’s early years were marked by significant family changes. His parents divorced when he was just four years old, leading to a childhood split between different states.

While he was born in Maryland, he spent a good portion of his youth in Georgia before eventually moving to Florida. This transient upbringing might have helped him develop the adaptability required for an acting career, but in those early days, his heart wasn’t on the stage—it was on the ice. Growing up, chase stokes harbored serious aspirations of becoming a professional ice hockey player.

His educational journey was rooted in the South. He attended Timber Creek High School in Orlando, Florida, where he continued to balance his athletic interests with his studies. After high school, he pursued higher education with a focus on communication and media. He earned a degree from Valencia College and also spent time at the University of Central Florida and Seminole State College.

As noted in All About Chase Stokes, The Breakout Star Of Netflix’s Outer Banks, his path to stardom wasn’t immediate. He worked various jobs while trying to break into the industry, including a stint as a lifeguard and even working at a local bowling alley. These “real world” experiences in Florida and Georgia provided a grounded perspective that he often brings to his roles today.

The Rise of Chase Stokes: From Stranger Things to Outer Banks

The road to becoming a household name began in 2015. Like many actors starting out, chase stokes took on small television roles to build his resume. One of his earliest credits was a brief appearance in the Netflix mega-hit Stranger Things in 2016, where he played a character named Reed. While it was a small part, it gave him a taste of the Netflix ecosystem that would later define his career.

Following Stranger Things, he appeared in three episodes of the VH1 series Daytime Divas in 2017. However, the true turning point came with a script for a show called Outer Banks. Interestingly, Stokes wasn’t immediately sold on the project. When he first heard the pitch, he famously compared it to “f*cking Goonies,” thinking it might be a derivative treasure-hunt story.

Thankfully, he gave the script a second look. He originally read for the role of Topper (the Kook antagonist) before the producers realized he was the perfect fit for the lead, John B. Routledge. When Outer Banks premiered on April 15, 2020, right at the start of global lockdowns, it became an instant phenomenon.

The “Pogue life”—centered on friendship, loyalty, and the hunt for $400 million in gold—struck a chord with millions. Stokes became the face of the series, embodying the charismatic, rugged, and fiercely loyal John B. His performance earned him a spot as a host for Netflix’s global fan event, Tudum, cementing his status as one of the platform’s biggest stars. Fans should prepare their goodbyes, however, as Outer Banks Will End with a Fifth and Final Season scheduled for 2025.

Career Highlights and Creative Ventures

While John B is his most recognizable role, chase stokes has been busy diversifying his portfolio. His chemistry with his co-stars is legendary, literally—he won the MTV Movie & TV Award for Best Kiss in 2021 with Madelyn Cline.

His creative reach extends into the music world as well. He starred in the steamy music video for Kygo and Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” and more recently appeared in Kelsea Ballerini’s “First Rodeo” music video. To date, he has made over 30 self-appearances on television, ranging from The Tonight Show to presenting at the Grammy Awards and the Critics’ Choice Awards.

The Complete Filmography of Chase Stokes

Stokes has steadily moved from the small screen to feature films. Below is a look at his primary roles across various media:

It is worth noting that Stokes was originally cast in the series One of Us Is Lying, but due to a scheduling conflict with Outer Banks Season 2, he had to pass on the project. His reach is also international; his projects are dubbed worldwide, with actors like Alan García (Argentina) and Luis Leonardo Suárez (Mexico) providing his voice for Spanish-speaking audiences.

Upcoming Projects and Directorial Debut

The year 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year of Chase’s career yet. He is set to star as Rule Archer in the highly anticipated YA romance Marked Men: Rule + Shaw, which is scheduled for a theatrical release on January 22, 2025. He will also lead the thriller Valiant One, playing Edward Brockman, a film centered on a plane crash in the Korean DMZ.

Perhaps most excitingly, chase stokes is stepping behind the camera. He is set to make his feature directorial debut with the film I Told the Sunset About You, produced by Monarch Media. This move into directing signals his desire to shape stories from the ground up, moving beyond his “teen idol” roots into a more multifaceted industry professional.

Personal Life and Relationships

Standing at 6’1″ (1.85 m), Chase has a commanding presence that translates well to the screen. Off-camera, he maintains a massive social media following, primarily on Instagram (@hichasestokes), where he shares glimpses of his life, from surfing to high-fashion red carpet looks. He remains close to his family, including his sibling, Kaden Stokes.

While he has spent much of his career filming in the Carolinas, Chase is no stranger to the New York social scene. He has been spotted at various elite events in Manhattan and Brooklyn, often captured by renowned photographers like Annie Watt. Whether he’s attending a Netflix premiere in the city or exploring the local culinary culture, he fits right into the vibrant New York lifestyle we celebrate here at Edible Brooklyn.

Interesting Facts About Chase Stokes

Did you know these tidbits about the Outer Banks star?

• Pro Dreams: Before acting, he was a high-level ice hockey player and considered it a viable career path.
• Initial “No”: He turned down the first audition for Outer Banks because he thought the title sounded cheesy.
• IMDb Verified: He is a self-verified professional on IMDbPro, where he holds a high Starmeter rank.
• Award Winner: He has 2 wins and 5 nominations across various entertainment awards.
• Media Mainstay: In 2025 alone, he is slated for major appearances at the Grammys and Critics’ Choice Awards.

Notable Relationships

Chase’s romantic life has often been in the spotlight, partly because he has dated high-profile stars. His most famous relationship was with his Outer Banks co-star Madelyn Cline. The pair dated from 2020 to 2021, and their real-life chemistry helped fuel the show’s massive success. Despite their breakup, they have continued to work together professionally on the series.

In 2023, Chase began a high-profile relationship with country music star Kelsea Ballerini. The couple was frequently seen together at award shows and on social media, with Chase even appearing in her music videos. However, recent reports in 2025 suggest the couple has faced challenges, with news of a breakup and social media “blocking” making headlines. Despite the personal ups and downs, Chase remains focused on his heavy 2025 production schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chase Stokes

How tall is Chase Stokes?

Chase Stokes stands at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters). His height and athletic build have been assets in his more physical roles, including the action-heavy scenes in Outer Banks.

What is Chase Stokes’ next movie?

His next major film is Marked Men: Rule + Shaw, where he plays the lead character Rule Archer. It is set for a theatrical release in January 2025. He also has the thriller Valiant One coming out later in the year.

Is Outer Banks ending after Season 5?

Yes, Netflix has officially confirmed that Season 5 will be the final chapter for the Pogues. Production and release are scheduled for 2025, promising a high-stakes conclusion to John B’s journey.

Conclusion

From his roots in Maryland and Florida to the red carpets of New York City, chase stokes has proven he is more than just a “Netflix heartthrob.” His transition from a small role in Stranger Things to leading a global franchise—and now making his directorial debut—shows a career trajectory built on talent and a willingness to take risks.

As he wraps up his time as John B and moves into more mature film roles, we look forward to seeing how his influence grows. At Edible Brooklyn, we love a good success story, especially one that intersects with the vibrant culture of our city. While Chase might be busy hunting for treasure on screen, we invite you to find your own treasures in the local food scene. After catching the final season of Outer Banks, why not Explore the best Brooklyn restaurants and enjoy the local flavors that make our neighborhoods so unique?

Whether he’s directing his first feature or starring in a YA romance, chase stokes is a name we’ll be hearing for a long time to come. Stay tuned to his journey—and keep an eye out for him if you’re wandering through Manhattan or Brooklyn; you never know who you might run into at the next big premiere.