Netflix fans furious as hit series set to return without key character

Netflix viewers are up in arms as the streamer shared an update for the fifth and final season of the beloved Outer Banks.

The series made its debut in 2020 and has since accumulated 200 million views over its four seasons.

Work on the final season began on June 16, with the cast posing for photos on social media. However, one key character was missing and fans were quick to pick up on the absence.

Rudy Pankow's character JJ did not feature in the promotional pictures, with alexaveronica_ sharing: "No JJ? Cool I won't be watching. I'll just pretend OBX ended with season 3."

S.oftmurven added: "I don't see the best character ever??" With Rebeccathebookworm venting: "I hate this! I hate this so much. I genuinely don't understand how anyone thought it was a good idea to kill JJ off and essentially try to replace him with Rafe for the last season.

"I don't if that was a choice by the actor or the writers, but it's ridiculous and no one is happy about it.

"It's not even split, LITERALLY NO ONE IS HAPPY ABOUT JJ BEING GONE! I love almost all of the characters, but JJ was a core part of the show, and without him it's pointless.

"I'm still so disappointed. This was my favorite show and now I won't be watching season 5. Have fun with tanked ratings in your final season Outer Banks writers and Netflix!" [Sic]

Aep.rudeth concluded: "Ain't watching this unless JJ is back."

However, there were some fans who continued to express their excitement, with one saying: "Can't wait for more OBX drama! Hope they bring back the wild treasure hunts."

Another agreed: "Sad to see it end, but excited for one last ride!"

Season four saw JJ get killed by his real father, Chandler Groff (J. Anthony Crane), during the hunt for Blackbeard's treasure.

Rudy shared an emotional tribute following his exit, saying on Instagram: "Being grateful doesn't begin to explain it, honestly words in general explaining 5 years of memories, blood, sweat and passion with this special cast, crew, writers, producers, artists aren't possible.

"So for now, giving a huge THANK YOU, thank you to all them and to YOU for the treasure hunt of a lifetime. And lastly to my pal JJ Maybank, thank you. I'll love you forever."

Outer Banks season 5 will air on Netflix