Newcomer actor RUDY PANKOW stars as JJ in the Netflix teen adventure drama series OUTERBANKS. The show follows the adventures of a group of teenagers in the Outer Banks of North Carolina called the “Pogues.” The characters uncover different mysteries such as the disappearance of one of their friend’s father, and discovering a hidden treasure. Also present are doses of nostalgia, teenage drama, class struggles and more.

In this exclusive interview, actor Rudy Pankow shares the story of his acting journey so far, his crazy adventures, and playing his character JJ in the show.

How are you coping? 

As well as I can. Lots of cooking, movies, master classes, and chess games. Just getting as cozy as I can get.

How would you describe the show?

I like saying it’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles meets, Little Rascals, meets Lords of Dog Town, meets the Goonies.

Why should people watch the show? 

People should watch the show if you’re ok with not taking your eyes off the screen for 10 episodes then jumping off the couch and living an adventure for themselves. It’s one of those stories that makes you want to go live an adventure after watching it. 

What’s the craziest adventure that you’ve had?

Growing up in Alaska you definitely have plenty to choose from. However I think the craziest adventure that I’ve ever gone on is happening right now. Moving from a small town to the city of Los Angeles, aspiring to become a successful actor, to then taking my first step into that world is pretty adventurous to me. 

How far would you go to embark on an adventure with your friends? 

As far as we wanted. I think most of what we have as humans is stories and living them. So I guess if circumstances warrant, as far as everyone is willing. 

What’s your favorite episode?

Definitely a hard question because every episode provides you with a whole new layer of emotion and connection... but in terms of pacing and a fun ride, I would have to say episode 5. 

How did you manage to rise in the encounters you had to face?

Good people and an amazing cast!! We were able to get so close so fast that we trusted each other so much on set to get the job done. We powered through scenes so fast at times you found a rhythm to the madness. Everyone knew their job and everyone did it so well. 

How different are you from JJ?

I feel like JJ and I share quite a few qualities. I think we have a similar outlook on society. We both see the system in place that is very hard to overcome. We both are self-sufficient. Now I think I see things a little more broader then JJ, when he is quite personal about his viewpoint. Which I think is why I understand and really admire JJ. We both have a slight rebellious quality inside that we enjoy acting on.

What’s the best part about playing JJ?

Amongst living in his energy, my favorite thing I would say is the freedom of knowing exactly who you are in this world. JJ has such a clarity of what he knows works for him and how he operates. 

What would you do with your 100 mil? 

I’d get a dog. Then a farm. This includes the land needed for two horses, a herd of cows, a chicken coop, a pig sty, and various other enclosures for activities. Not too far out but also in the middle of nowhere. Then just start living off the land. Then maybe a vacation home in the Bahamas. And then give the leftover millions to charity. 

Walk us briefly through your acting journey.

It’s been such a fun ride of failures and very few successes. Yet the thrill of just feeling you’re someone else, even just in my room by myself is why I love this art. Every character I play, when also simultaneously learning about the craft, is unintentionally teaching me about myself. And I love it. I started feeling like I was meant for something other than the scholastic fields pretty young. But I never thought it was acting until my last year of high school. Once I found that connection to the art, which mind you happened after moving to LA, I was certain that this craft is where I belonged.

What are you most excited about this year?

There were quite a few things I was looking forward to in 2020, but after this pandemic arose and pushed things to 2021 if not canceled completely, I can honestly say that the show coming out this April (April 15) is probably it. 

If you could be any book. What book would you be and why?

I would be the Complete Works of William Shakespeare so I can 100% understand the language and know how to use jaw dropping diction.

Outerbanks is currently streaming on NETFLIX