How the Olympic Leotard Went from Basic to Blinged Out

Anjerika Wilmer
Aug 16, 2016

If you’ve been tuning in to the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, then you might’ve noticed how darn sparkly the women’s gymnastic team’s leotards have become. Embellished in sequins, shimmer and no shortage of Swarovski crystals (5,000 to be exact), Team USA’s uniforms straight-up slayed. Just as the competition has increasingly gotten more fierce each year, so has the presentation of these expensive custom-made bodysuits. Scroll down to see how Olympic leotards have evolved over time. Hint, hint: They haven’t always been decked out in this much bling.

The history of the leotard, a close-fitting bodysuit worn by dancers and gymnasts alike, wouldn’t be complete without this fella. Meet Jules Léotard, the French trapeze artist who popularized the leotard in the ‘50s as a form of gym wear for stunting. (Photo via Hulton Archive/Getty)

1948

The leotards worn by American gymnast Marian Barone and Team USA during the 1948 Summer Olympics would be considered pretty drab according to today’s standards. Not only are they completely devoid of any sparkle (say what?!), but the silhouette is noticeably looser in the torso. It’s safe to say Olympic uniforms have come a long way. (Photo via Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty)

1960s

We’re seeing progress, people! It’s not until the 1960 Summer Olympics that unitards get reinvented, with long sleeves and higher cuts. With more complex routines, streamlined unitards allowed gymnasts to hit those daring half twists and backward flips. Russian gymnast Larisa Latynina is shown here wearing a dark-colored unitard — the introduction of non-white uniforms allowed gymnasts and teams to express their individuality. (Photo via Central Press/Hulton Archive/Getty)

1976

Despite being the first gymnast to score a perfect 10, Nadia Comaneci’s unitard didn’t live up to all the hype during the 1976 Summer Olympics. With the exception of three stripes (in her country’s colors, no less), her plain white leotard took a back-to-basics approach. (Photo via Don Morley/Getty)

1984

It’s ‘bout time! Flag-inspired uniforms finally entered the arena in the 1980s. If you ask us, Tracee Talavera’s star-spangled leotard gets an almost perfect score. Throw some holographic glitter into the mix, and we’re on board. (Photo via Steve Powell/Getty)

1996

The bold, patriotic designs continued at the 1996 Olympic Games, as Kerri Strug performed a second vault despite her already injured ankle. The function of Team USA’s white uniforms was twofold: to show off their athletic physique and express their pride in the US of A via decorative stars and stripes. (Photo via Mike Powell/Getty)

2008

Now we’re talking: The 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing practically seem like yesterday, with all-star US gymnasts Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin being awarded the silver and bronze medals, respectively. In a matter of years, Team USA’s uniforms went from super plain to mega glitzy. We can’t decide what we love more: Shawn’s majestic purple (!) leotard or Nastia’s red carpet-ready crystal-embellished number. (Photo via Jed Jacobsohn/Getty)

2012

And then there was McKayla Maroney’s signature “not impressed” face and her spectacular LRL (little red leotard) to match. In place of stars and stripes, the 2012 Olympics marked the appearance of hologram fabrics with major star-studded appeal. You could say the “Fierce Five” looked fabulous performing in their shimmering red leos. (Photo via Ronald Martinez/Getty)

2016

Bring on the bling and leotard swag! Fast forward to Rio, and Team USA has never looked so fly. Between the patriotic design and DDG embellished Swarovski crystals, this year’s leotards were unstoppable. Created by GK Elite, these custom-made suits were two years in the making. Each gymnast receives roughly eight leotards for competition, and 12 for training and practice. The amount of engineering that goes into each suit is astounding, with months dedicated to perfecting the techy materials alone. The result of all their hard work is an undeniably swoon-worthy suit that shines just as bright as the women who wear it. We would expect nothing less for Simone Biles and her Final Five teammates. (Photo via Laurence Griffiths/Getty)

Which Olympic leotard design is your favorite? Follow us on Pinterest for more summer Olympic-inspired style!

4 Ways Watching The Paris Olympics IRL Is Totally Different Than On TV

There's a mixture of anticipation and excitement as you approach any arena, whether you're going to a sports game, a concert, or any kind of performance. However, knowing that you're about to watch an Olympic event with your own eyes is something else entirely.

By some stroke of random luck, I've had the opportunity to spend the summer in Paris during the 2024 Olympics. Okay, my French grandmother needed some grandaughterly help, but still — I'm here! And what are the odds she would need that THIS summer of all summers?

Initially, I had no intention of attending the Olympics, and was rather peeved that the city would become a chaotic mess with all the tourists and infrastructure being built to host this worldwide celebration. But when the opportunity arose for me to attend beach volleyball at the Eiffel Tower Stadium (and for only $30, no less!), I just couldn't pass it up.

As a former high school volleyball player, I marched into the stadium more excited than ever. The sun was shining, the vibes were high, and the views were breathtaking.

Morgan Legret

Once we sat down, the game started almost immediately. I kept thinking to myself how intimate the stadium felt. I mean, I’m at arguably one of the most important sports competitions in the world, and my college football stadium is bigger than this. As a result, you can’t help but feel grateful to be there.

For beach volleyball, you get to see two games. We started off by watching Ana Patricia Silva Ramos and Eduarda Santos Lisboa from Brazil and Taliqua Clancy and Mariafe Artacho from Australia. In each of the three sets, the first team to reach 21 points wins. The first set went to Brazil, Australia took the lead in the second set, and ultimately won the game in the last set. As I watched them, I was sweating my butt off in the stands, thinking to myself how hot the athletes must be.

Morgan Legret

Between points, or when the players took breaks for water and shade, there were two main 'hype men' or MCs who really got the crowd going. We did the wave, we danced, we waved our flags, and just all around celebrated our respective countries. It was so beautiful to watch everyone being so prideful and patriotic, regardless of whether or not their team was on the field. We even got a visit from Phryge (the 2024 Olympic mascot and my favorite part, personally), who made his appearance as the crowd roared for the little red hat.

Morgan Legret

The second game was Spain vs. Switzerland. I was very excited for this because I have some skin in the game — my grandma is half Spanish and I have a lot of friends from there, so I rooted for España in solidarity! Liliana Fernandez and Paula Soria of Spain faced off against Swiss players Nina Brunner and Tanja Huberli. I was on the edge of my seat the entire game, but ultimately Switzerland took home the win in the first two sets.

This experience is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I feel extremely lucky to have witnessed such solidarity in a world of uncertainty and division. Not to mention, the incredible athleticism and sportsmanship displayed by these women (go girlbosses!) and what they're doing for their respective countries.

It is really true what they say: nothing compares to the real thing. Here are three ways watching the Olympics IRL are so different than watching it on TV.

Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images

1. Phryge is even cuter than pictures can do justice

If you're wondering what exactly Phryge, the Olympic mascot, really is — you're not alone. According to the Associated Press, it's been top of mind for a ton of Olympic-goers. And while it may look strange to some, it's actually a personified version of the "bonnet phrygien," a hat often worn to represent the revolutionary efforts in 1780s France. Regardless of the history, though, he was just adorable — basically the cute, less sassy younger sibling to the Duolingo owl.

2. The hype men are way better than commercial breaks

Instead of ads for cars and Coca-cola, when there are breaks in the games, hype me take the stage! They encourage group activities like the wave and other dances while the athletes towel off and grab some water. I honestly had such a good time while they kept us activated and excited!

Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images

3. The games are way more intimate than the TV can show

There's something that feels so larger-than-life about the Olympics — and they really are in terms of the energy and excitement. But when it comes to the actual stadium, the entire experience felt intimate. Like I said before, the whole space felt smaller than some high school stadiums, so everyone was close to the action. Meanwhile, when I've watched other matches at home, I felt so detached and far away from it all...almost like it was this abstract thing that was happening, but wasn't particularly concrete.

4. Seeing the camaraderie amongst every country was electric

Even though everyone's specific teams and countries weren't necessarily represented in the matches at hand, the entire crowd pridefully waved their countries flags and cheered on the athletes in front of them alike. It was so incredibly different than being at home where you cheer with your friends and family, likely only watching specific events and usually for the same team. I adored seeing how it didn't matter where you were from or what the match was — everyone was happy to be here and cheer for the Olympics of it all.

BRB while I plot my way into the 2028 L.A. Olympics!

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Header image via Lars Baron/Getty Images

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Here's The Real Reason JJ Died, According To A Source

Major Outer Banks season 4 part 2 spoilers ahead. Like, the biggest spoiler of the whole series.

Outer Banks season 4 has come and gone, and after just completely weeping during the finale, I'm ready to commune with my fellow heartbroken Pogues. We've had four seasons of crazy adventures around the OBX (and around the world), and after surviving yet another storm, finally finding the Blue Crown, and even beginning a reconciliation with Rafe, we had to say goodbye to one of the Pogues during part 2— and I'm so genuinely upset I don't know if I can watch the show again. Here's what actually happened during that insane Outer Banks season 4 ending.

The Outer Banks Season 4 Ending, Explained

  • Outer Banks season 4 part 2 premiered on Netflix November 7.
  • Among various plot twists, the series shocked viewers by killing off one fan favorite character.
  • Here's why the tragedy was "the overarching plan for the show."

Is Rudy Pankow leaving OBX?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After traveling to Morocco to find the Blue Crown, the Pogues (and Rafe, who I guess is a Pogue now??) once again find themselves in a race against Chandler Groff and Dalia & Lightener. Our favorite couples get some quality time, like JJ and Kiara talking about the legend that the crown grants wishes, but right when the group finally starts to crack the treasure map, a sand storm splits them up: Sarah and John B. running from Dalia's men, and Pope and Cleo holding off Lightener while JJ and Kiara find the crown.

And things look up when JJ actually does find the crown! And he and Kiara escape Dalia! But when they run into Groff, who holds Kiara at knifepoint, JJ is forced to choose between the crown and the girl he loves. He willingly gives the crown up, pulling Kiara to safety in a heartbreaking parallel to their sweet hug from season 1. And in a moment of heartless cruelty, Groff stabs JJ anyway, leaving him in Kiara's arms as Groff runs away with the treasure.

It's truly one of the most devastating scenes in recent TV. Kie sits with JJ as he struggles to breathe and he asks her to take care of the other Pogues before telling her he already got his wish — her. They say one final "I love you" and JJ dies. I'm not exaggerating when I tell you I was weeping.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

"It’s something that's engineered to be gratuitous," showrunner Shannon Burke told EW. "JJ totally is at peace, that’s the intent. He’s gotten past this. He’s been in a bad place and has been spinning for a lot of the season...And you feel when he comes back [after saving Sarah] that he’s in a better place and that there’s a long and bright future with him and Kiara, so it makes it extra tragic, what happens." Yeah, Shannon, you could say that.

“We wanted to begin in a place of innocence and then go to a place that at least one point to go is really dark for [the kids], and then have them come out of it," he adds in a Deadline interview. "That’s the overarching plan for the show. It was always JJ that was going to be, we just weren’t sure how we were going to play it.”

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Fans weren't happy about the choice to kill off such a fan favorite character, claiming it felt rushed and that the relationships between JJ and the rest of the group were weaker this season. Well, according to one DeuxMoi source, JJ's death was actually supposed to happen in the series finale. But with all those cast drama rumors, Rudy Pankow is rumored to have asked to be written off the show early.

"They filmed episode 10 before the last episodes of the first half & Rudy didn't tell the cast so it threw them off," the source says. "In the last episode you can see how mad everyone was at Rudy. It's a mess and it pissed off production but they are going to brush it off like it's ‘always been the plan.’”

Is JJ coming back in season 5?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

I'm simultaneously pissed and very impressed with this finale. JJ's death immediately started trending on social media, and the fact that a single scene could get such a visceral reaction from millions of fans shows how much we care about this character. And the realization that burying him in Morocco fulfills his greatest fear of being left alone?? I can't handle it.

Despite the fact John B. checks JJ's pulse and we can see Rafe digging JJ's grave in the sand, some fans are hoping the show will bring him back after Ward, Big John, and Sarah have all technically returned from the dead. The show hasn't forayed into true supernatural territory yet, but if the crown really does grant Kie and rest of the Pogues a wish? I'm certain they'd wish JJ back to life.

"Why would they create a treasure with the power of invincibility and wishes if it wasn’t significant?" one X user says in a viral thread. "So either Chandler finds JJ's body in Morocco and uses the crown on him or Kie / the Pogues will wish for JJ's life back."

Stranger Things 4 brought a version of Billy (Dacre Montgomery) back to haunt Sadie Sink's Max, so at the very least we could see memories or scenes with JJ we've never seen before. "I wouldn’t put [Rudy Pankow's return] out of the realm of possibility, Shannon told EW. "I wouldn’t say for sure but I wouldn’t be surprised if it happened."

Is Sarah pregnant in OBX 4?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

With the "death of the fandom's favorite character" of it all, you might have forgotten that yes — Sarah Cameron is pregnant! Season 5 is sure to give us some more info about the baby and parents-to-be, but considering JJ, who's the baby's godfather, suggested his name is a great gender-neutral option, there's a chance we already know the baby's name ;). It would be the perfect way to honor him TBH.

What's up with the rest of the Pogues?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

In addition to Sarah's pregnancy, she also finally starts to make up with Rafe, who finds himself stuck with the Pogues in Morocco. Cleo has somewhat avenged Terrance's murder with Lightener's death — even though Pope's the one who will take the fall for it. Killing one of this season's bad guys was a huge step for Pope since John B. wasn't able to pull the trigger. And considering Pope is still on the run from the cops AND the Marines are waiting on him I have no idea what's in store for him next season.

But the showrunners did give us a clue as to what the final season of Outer Banks will revolve around: revenge.

What's going to happen in Outer Banks season 5?

Netflix

“[Revenge] is where we start but I think it will go through different iterations,” Jonas Pate says (via Deadline). “If you look at The Count of Monte Cristo, one of the greatest revenge stories, you start with revenge, but it goes to understanding and forgiveness, so revenge goes on to different iterations of that, but revenge is where we start for sure.”

In the final moments of the Outer Banks season 4 ending, the Pogues sit around a fire in the aftermath of JJ's death. And when they finally acknowledge that JJ wouldn't rest until he had avenged them, Kiara vows to get even and it's one of the most chilling moments of her entire character arc.

"What’s interesting about her is she’s this 'save the turtles, save the dolphins' kind of person, and when you see her at the end of [season] 4, she definitely does not look that like anymore," Shannon Burke tells EW. "She has turned into a different person and we’re excited for that and [Madison Bailey's] really excited for that."

"We’re planning a story of redemption, and a season that embodies the friendship that JJ had come to represent," co-creators Josh and Jonas Pates tell Netflix. "JJ's death was a hard but necessary piece of the architecture for the story, and we plan on honoring that as much as we can because we love the character as much as the fans do."

What did you think of the Outer Banks season 4 ending? Let us know on Instagram.

This post has been updated.

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Simone Biles And Suni Lee Stack The Podium — Plus 9 Other Jaw-Dropping 2024 Olympic Moments

From beach volleyball under the Eiffel Tower to surfing in Tahiti, the Paris Olympics have blown my mind thus far. I'm always super into Olympic season because sportsmanship, community, and pride for your country are such beautiful things to witness and celebrate collectively. I'm currently in Paris and have even been able to see a couple of events myself — and I gotta tell you, it's incredible to watch live. History is made left and right, every single day — especially when it comes to Team USA!

While the games continue, here are all the incredible moments we've seen so far!

Screengrab by IOC via Getty Images

Two Words: Celine Dion

After her shocking documentary came out, Celine Dion made a triumphant return to performing during the opening ceremony for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Dion's very rare Stiff Person Syndrome made many wonder if the superstar would be able to sing again, and this performance put those rumors to rest. She blew us all away with her stunning vocal performance of "Hymn A L'Amour" — can anyone pass some tissues? 😭

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Simone Biles Made An Epic Comeback — And Won Gold With Her Team

Team USA Women's Gymnastics is back and better than ever baby! After a devastating experience in Tokyo, Simone Biles made an epic comeback with this insane floor routine, starting off with an intro I could not deem more appropriate to Taylor Swift's "Are You Ready For It?" And boy were we! Not only did Biles start off her Paris games with a bang, but she did with such elegance and ease. We are so happy to have her back!

Alongside the amazing performances from Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey, the team took home the gold medal!

Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Women In Fencing Make History

Another incredible win for Team USA, and another historical moment for women! Lee Kiefer won two back-to-back gold medals this week in foil fencing. Her teammate, Lauren Scruggs took home the silver metal and became the first Black fencer to ever win an Olympic medal! Not only is this an incredible moment for the country, but for humankind. This is also the first time the United States has dominated the fencing podium since 1904! History was definitely made, to say the least!

Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Team USA Proves Rugby Isn't Just For Boys

They have the beauty, the brains, and now they have the BRONZE! The USA Women's Rugby Team is bringing home their first ever Olympic win in history. Rugby is notoriously an intense contact sport — it's fast, it's rough, and often more associated with a male demographic. But this team is showing everyone how truly amazing women sports are. And hey, they got Jason Kelce as a superfan, so you should be too!

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

True Meaning Of Teammates

Team USA swimmers Torri Huske and Gretchen Walsh both bring home medals after they competed side-by-side in the 100 meter butterfly. Though Walsh was the previous record holder, she congratulated Huske on the Gold as they both celebrated their momentous win, wrapped together around the American flag. We couldn't be happier for these amazing Olympic swimming medalists!

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

One Trick Pony Brings Home The Win With The Men's Gymnastics Team

Stephen Nedoroscik, also known as "Clark Kent" on Tik Tok waited all day to perform his pommel horse routine. Before he began his routine, he took off his glasses — which was a little concerning for spectators — and started his routine. We all quickly realized that he was no joke. He seemingly came out of nowhere and snatched the bronze medal with the rest of Team USA. Now, he's a media phenomenon, and we can't get enough of him!

PS: This is Team USA's first medal since 2008 for men's team gymnastics — so exciting!

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Cook'N Bacon Are So In Sync

Synchronized diving has been one of my fave Olympic sports to watch since I was a kid! It's so mesmerizing and obviously incredibly impressive. I am so happy for Sarah Bacon and Kassidy Cook (affectionately known as "Cook'N Bacon") for brining home the silver medal! This is an amazing achievement for them both, but especially for Team USA who hasn't been on the diving podium since 2012. Wow!

Photo by Tim de Waele/Getty Images

Batten Biked To Silver

Haley Batten took home the silver medal for women's mountain biking race — the best finish for Team USA ever! Her wheel literally broke in the middle of the race, and she still managed to medal. So while the win was incredible to begin with, the fact that she persevered and overcame the odds makes it that much more amazing!

Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Ledecky Lead The Pack

We already knew Katie Ledecky was incredible, but she only further cemented her jaw-dropping skills during the women's 1500 meter freestyle final! In the longest swimming event at the Olympics, Ledecky consistently lead the pack throughout, and finished over 10 seconds before her silver medal counterpart. She's currently tied with Dara Torres, Natalie Coughlin and Jenny Thompson for the most medals won by a female swimmer — and she doesn't plan on slowing down anytime soon, setting her sights on the 2028 Olympics according to ESPN! We can't wait to see what she does next!

Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images

Simone And Suni Stack The Podium

After dominating the team finals, Team USA brought home more hardware for women's gymnastics in the individual competition! Suni Lee faced fierce competition in the battle for bronze, needing to nail her final rotation on her floor routine, and did she ever! Lee scored a 13.666, cementing her spot on the podium.

Afterwards, Biles was neck-in-neck for the gold medal against Brazilian gymnast Rebecca Andrade. Andrade gave an incredible performance, definitely earning a lot of pride for Brazil, but at the end of the day Biles upped the ante with what Laurie Hernandez described as one of the hardest routines out there. Earning a 15.066, Biles won the gold medal — the first time an American gymnast has won two gold medals in the individual competition since 1968 according to Today!

Looking to stay in-the-know on all things Olympics? Be sure to follow us on Tiktok!

Header image via Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

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LOL, An 'Outer Banks' Cast Member Just Totally Called Fans Out

Outer Banks fans cried saying goodbye to JJ when part 2 dropped on November 7, but I wasn't expecting the Outer Banks cast's goodbye to Rudy Pankow to make me equally emotional. The TV show is a standout because of how electric the cast's chemistry is onscreen — and how close they are offscreen.

But according to some sources, a rift reportedly formed between Rudy Pankow (JJ) and Madison Bailey (Kiara) after fans picked up on their chemistry and started shipping them IRL...like, really intensely. Despite the fact the creators promise this was the plan since season 1, OBX fans are convinced their rumored fallout is the reason Rudy left the show.

Keep reading for the full breakdown on the rumored Outer Banks cast drama between Madison Bailey and Rudy Pankow.

  • Outer Banks cast members Madelyn Cline, Chase Stokes, Madison Bailey, Rudy Pankow, Jonathan Daviss, Drew Starkey, and Carlacia Grant are incredibly close offscreen.
  • It seems drama started between Rudy and Madison after fans who shipped their characters started shipping the actors in real life.
  • And a variety of OBX fans think this drama is why Rudy chose to leave the show after season 4.

The Latest Update On The 'Outer Banks' Cast Drama

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After fans have been VERY loud about the supposed cast drama, Carlacia Grant (Cleo) made me laugh out loud when she posted her OBX 4 Instagram post — and seemingly called fans out in the comments. The roundup includes cast group pictures, a snap of Drew Starkey, and Morocco, and she captioned the post, "If I drop these are y’all gonna act right?"

Why aren't Rudy and Madison friends anymore?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Rudy Pankow and Madison Bailey were best friends during season 1 (Madison called Rudy her "bestie," and said that in any situation, "he's the first person I'm going to call"). But rumors of a fallout came after the show went viral in 2020. Fans picked up on their onscreen chemistry and started shipping the actors in addition to shipping their characters JJ and Kiara (the internet shipped the fictional couple so hard, in fact, that the relationship was written into the show despite it not being the team's original plan).

"Madison and Kiara, and Rudy and JJ, are two different people," Madison said in a 2020 Entertainment Tonight interview after the relationship started picking up steam. "Let's keep the ships on the show. But as far as the show, I'm all for it."

After publicity for Outer Banks season 2 began, fans noticed Rudy and Madison didn't seem to have the same connection in public, and even appeared to avoid each other on set — a far cry from their adorable interactions during press for season 1.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Fans started outright blaming Rudy's girlfriend Elaine Seimek, who was originally a PA on the show, for causing a rift between the two actors. Madison herself shut down the rumors with a TikTok promising they all had no problems, while Rudy Pankow took to Instagram to defend his girlfriend.

"To those who are creating such displeasure and opinions about the one I love and my relationship, it’s time to stop," Rudy Pankow said in an August 6, 2021 post. "I want to express the importance to spread positivity and needing to know when it is unfair to express your own distaste for something or someone, especially when you can do it behind an anonymous identity. I was always told the best version of yourself is your most humbled self…I make this statement as my most humbled self and would be so grateful if we all would move forward in positivity and respect."

Is there drama between the Outer Banks cast?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

The Outer Banks cast drama rumors only intensified after a June 2023 dinner, when Madison Bailey and her partner Mariah Linney reportedly unfollowed Elaine on Instagram. Not to mention the fact Rudy Pankow isn't in any of the Outer Banks season 4 cast videos.

After JJ's death rocked the internet, creators Josh and Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke said that it was always the plan to kill JJ. "For a long time we had known that someone was going to die," showrunner Shannon Burke told Teen Vogue. "We thought it was going to be JJ all along."

However, the fact that JJ and Kiara have been dating for almost 2 years at this point, yet barely react to the other heading into danger has fans thinking Rudy asked to leave the show. And rumors that they filmed multiple endings to give Rudy the option to stay only adds fuel to the fire.

When new episodes of the show dropped in November of 2024, fans almost immediately clocked that Rudy and Madison appear to have used body doubles for a cuddling scene — while Madelyn Cline and Chase Stokes (who dated from June 2020 to November 2021) were cozied up across the campfire.

Even though an anonymous source suggested Rudy and Madison aren't friends anymore, and that their chemistry onscreen in season 1 was because they'd fallen for each other IRL, a source told People the actors are not feuding.

But one DeuxMoi source just spilled some serious tea, telling the site that, "Rudy asked them to write him off because of the drama! Production got mad and they had to refilm episodes," they said. "They filmed episode 10 before the last episodes of the first half & Rudy didn't tell the cast so it threw them off. In the last episode you can see how mad everyone was at Rudy. It's a mess and it pissed off production but they are going to brush it off like it's ‘always been the plan.’”

They also revealed that apparently, the plan was to kill JJ off in the series finale, which honestly kind of makes sense.

When did Madison Bailey and Rudy Pankow meet?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Rudy and Madison first met after Rudy had booked the role of JJ and Madison was headed to a final audition. Despite the fact they had mutual friends, they didn't meet until they were on the same plane to Charleston. She told Harper's Bazaar in 2020 that she said hello when they crossed paths, then found a DM from him on social media. “He was like, ‘I knew you were Kiara the second I saw you,’" she said. "I was like, "Oh my God, did this guy three seats up really just DM me?’ He went and found our mutuals, found my page, and messaged me.”

Well, during press for Outer Banks season 4, when the cast was asked who would be most likely to fall in love with a stranger on a plane, Carlacia Grant (Cleo) answered with Madison, leading fans to believe she was confirming the romance rumors.

Did Rudy quit OBX?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Rudy Pankow exited Outer Banks after season 4, and Madison Bailey finally spoke about what JJ means to her in the cast's official goodbye — and got emotional talking about how well Rudy brought the character to life.

"We all read the character on the page," she says. "And we know what you brought to it and you turned it out and really made something of it and paid respect to the depth of the character while bringing a lightheartedness that the show desperately needed."

And during a cast video hyping up JJ's (and Rudy's) best moments from the series, fans were beaming when Rudy and Madison dissected some of the best Jiara moments from season 3. "this video healed me❤️🩹 thank you netflix!" one TikTok user wrote in the comments of Madison talking about JJ and Kiara's first kiss. "I’m so happy [they're] friends bro like fr 🥺🥺," another user said.

Check back here for the latest updates on the Outer Banks cast drama. Read up on why Outer Banks Fans Are Really Not Happy With THAT Death In The OBX Season 4 Ending.

This post has been updated.

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This 3+ Hour Christmas Playlist Will Have You Jingling All The Way

Don't let every December evening become a "Silent Night" – press play on our Christmas playlist! This Christmas playlist is the perfect companion to have on in the background while you're setting up the tree, decorating Christmas cookies, or wrappinggifts. I made sure to include a mix of traditional (think Bing Crosby) and contemporary (hello, Spice Girls) Christmas tracks so that each and every play will have a variety, but still get you in the holiday spirit.

Listen to our Christmas playlist here.

"All I Want for Christmas Is You" – Mariah Carey

It’s tiIiiime! This song is literally everywhere during Christmas. Its catchiness is unavoidable, but I know you love it all the same. Mariah’s most popular Christmas song has *got* to be on repeat as you embrace all things red and green this winter.

"Last Christmas" – Wham!

Another undeniable Christmas classic, Wham!’s “Last Christmas” is a mainstay in my personal Christmas playlist. It’s equal parts cheery and nostalgic. It’s 80s vibes all the way. I even added Remi Wolf’s more recent cover of “Last Christmas” to our Christmas playlist for added vibes, because this track is one I can just listen to over and over again.

"It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" – Andy Williams

This song reminds me of New York City during the holiday season – not that I’ve experienced it for myself, but Andy Williams’ deep, soothing voice brings forth those elegant feelings I associate with Christmas movies that depict NYC, like Elf and Home Alone 2. It’s energetic and highly illustrative, and a must-listen every year.

"Blue Christmas" – Elvis Presley 

Thanks to thePriscilla movie, the Elvis hype is way up in 2023. Work in his pouty “Blue Christmas” into your holiday song rotation this year to embrace the 50s aesthetic while you’re decorating the tree! Even if you’re not missing someone special this Christmas, the woeful lyrics are going to make you yearn.

"O Tannenbaum" – Vince Guaraldi Trio

This jazzy, Peanuts-approved instrumental track begs to be played as you’re sipping hot chocolate by the fire this Christmas. It provides a nice moment of calm no matter when you’re listening to it, which we all know is definitely needed amongst all the holiday hubbub.

"White Winter Hymnal" – Fleet Foxes

Though not explicitly a Christmas song, “White Winter Hymnal” by Fleet Foxes is a winter playlist staple. Its folky instrumental work and vocals really channel the coziness we all associate with Christmas season. The consistent harmonies and tambourine beats will certainly put you in a calm, spirited mood this year if this track isn’t already on your radar.

"Auld Land Syne" – Guy Lombardo

Typically played at the end of the year to ring in the New Year, the original rendition of “Auld Lang Syne” done by Guy Lombardo plays through silky-smooth brass and woodwind arrangements that everyone will confide in this Christmas season. This is another very calming track, so play it when you’re moving at a slower pace.

"Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas)" – Bing Crosby

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This island-inspired Christmas song is the epitome of jolly. The driving guitar and drums back Bing Crosby’s classic voice to create an energetic song option this season.

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" – Judy Garland

This Judy Garland number is a classic! Her very lyrical, emotional way of delivering the spirited lyrics transport you to mid-century Christmas, when the track first appeared in Meet Me in St. Louis.

"Christmas Wrapping" – Spice Girls

It wouldn’t be a B+C playlist without a little 90s throwback! In this song, the Spice Girls cover the classic Christmas song that was originally sung by early-80s band, The Waitresses. It has that fun Y2K twist to get you groovin’!

Listen To Our Christmas Playlist Here!

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