Season three of “Outer Banks” splashed onto Netflix, promising more sun-soaked treasure hunts and Pogue camaraderie. As a dedicated fan since its pandemic-era debut, I eagerly anticipated diving back into the chaotic world of John B and the gang. However, the latest season left me, like many others, with a bittersweet aftertaste. While the thrill of adventure remained, something felt distinctly off, particularly with the portrayal of beloved characters. Among them, Kiara Carrera, initially a fiery and independent Pogue princess, experienced a noticeable shift that demands a closer look. This isn’t to say season three was a complete shipwreck, but the deviations from established character traits, especially in Kiara, were hard to ignore and ultimately impacted the season’s overall impact.
The Curious Case of Kiara’s Evolving (or Devolving?) Personality
Kiara, portrayed by Madison Bailey, has always been a compelling force within the Pogues. Her passionate activism, unwavering loyalty, and quick-witted nature made her a fan favorite. In previous seasons, Kiara wasn’t afraid to clash with authority, challenge social norms, and speak her mind, even if it meant facing consequences. Remember her fearless confrontation with Ward Cameron in season one? That was the Kiara we knew – assertive, principled, and unafraid to stand up for what she believed in.
However, season three presented a Kiara who seemed to have misplaced her trademark spark. The fiery confrontations were replaced with a softer, almost subdued demeanor. While character development is expected and welcomed, Kiara’s transformation felt less like growth and more like a personality transplant. The moment where she attempts to physically confront Rafe Cameron, the most volatile antagonist in the show, in front of law enforcement, felt jarringly out of character. This impulsive act seemed to contradict the strategic and intelligent Kiara we’ve come to expect.
Kiara Carrera, a central Pogue member, showcases a softer side in Outer Banks Season 3, prompting discussions about her character evolution.
Instead of the assertive Kiara who would take charge, season three Kiara often seemed relegated to a supportive role, primarily reacting to the plotlines of other characters. Her interactions became overwhelmingly comforting and nurturing, a departure from the multifaceted personality that made her so captivating. While Kiara has always possessed a kind heart, the near-complete absence of her more assertive and challenging traits felt like a disservice to the character’s established complexity. This shift wasn’t unique to Kiara; Pope Heyward, too, underwent a perplexing personality overhaul, transitioning from the cautious voice of reason to an almost unrecognizably “cool” and impulsive figure.
Jiara’s Journey: Fumbled Potential?
One of the most anticipated developments in season three was the exploration of the romantic tension between Kiara and JJ Maybank. “Jiara,” as affectionately dubbed by fans, had been brewing since season one, with subtle hints and undeniable chemistry between the two. The showrunners themselves acknowledged the fan-driven demand for this pairing, suggesting it wasn’t initially part of their plan. Yet, the groundwork laid in the first two seasons strongly suggested a deliberate build-up towards a JJ and Kiara romance. The lingering shots of JJ during Kiara’s romantic moments with others, his subtle reactions, all pointed towards a slow-burn romantic arc.
However, season three’s execution of “Jiara” felt rushed and, dare I say, uninspired. The deep, nuanced connection that fans had envisioned was replaced by a somewhat cheesy and simplistic portrayal. Instead of seeing two complex individuals navigating their feelings, we were presented with a relationship that seemed to exist solely for the sake of fulfilling a romantic plot point. The spark, the underlying tension that made “Jiara” so compelling, felt significantly diminished. Similar to iconic slow-burn couples like Otis and Maeve from “Sex Education,” the potential for a deeply resonant and authentic relationship between JJ and Kiara seemed to be squandered by writing choices that prioritized plot convenience over character depth.
Kidnapped… Again? The Repetitive Plot Device
Beyond character inconsistencies, season three also suffered from repetitive plot structures. Kiara’s storyline became particularly emblematic of this issue. In the early episodes, she is kidnapped, only to be rescued by the Pogues. Then, later in the season, in a seemingly déjà vu scenario, Kiara is kidnapped again, this time leading to her being sent to a troubled teen camp.
Madison Bailey’s portrayal of Kiara Carrera in Outer Banks Season 3 sparked discussions on character development and plot direction.
The troubled teen camp plotline, while hinted at in season two, felt like a last-minute addition rather than a carefully integrated narrative thread. Introducing it as a major plot point earlier in the season, stemming from the first kidnapping, could have offered a more impactful and less repetitive storyline. Imagine Kiara navigating the challenges of the camp, developing new relationships, and potentially uncovering clues relevant to the overarching mystery. This could have provided her with independent agency and enriched her character arc, rather than simply recycling a kidnapping scenario. Furthermore, a more extended separation and eventual reunion with JJ could have amplified the romantic tension that felt lacking in their rushed season three romance. The double kidnapping storyline felt not only redundant but also a missed opportunity to explore Kiara’s character in a more meaningful and engaging way.
Hoping for a Return to Form in Season 4
“Outer Banks” season three, while still offering moments of adventure and Pogue spirit, ultimately fell short of expectations, particularly in its character portrayals and plot execution. The shift in Kiara’s personality, the rushed “Jiara” romance, and the repetitive kidnapping plotline all contributed to a sense of disappointment. However, as seen with other series like “Stranger Things,” a less-than-stellar season three doesn’t necessarily spell doom. “Outer Banks” has the potential to recapture the authenticity, heart, and compelling character dynamics that made the first two seasons so captivating.
Season four presents an opportunity for the writers to course-correct. Whether it’s delving into Kiara’s alluded-to “kook year” with the Camerons, revisiting the intimate friendships that defined the early seasons, or simply re-emphasizing character consistency, a return to the show’s original strengths is crucial. Season three might be a make-or-break point, but with a renewed focus on character-driven narratives and authentic storytelling, the Pogues still have time to steer their ship back on course.
