Why JJ and Kiara won’t make it past Outer Banks season 3

Outer Banks season 3 finally came to Netflix on Thursday, Feb. 23, and fans across the globe were ecstatic to be reunited with their favorite Pogues. The action-packed installment saw the beloved characters living out in Poguelandia together before having to face reality and go back home. But though things were peaceful for them while they were isolated on an island, they faced many hardships back in the real world. John B (Chase Stokes) finally found his father Big John (Charles Halford), but that only led to danger when he realized he was still stuck on finding the hidden treasure.

Beyond all the action and adventure in Outer Banks season 3, there was also a lot of romance. And romantic woes. John B and Sarah (Madelyn Cline) split up — and got back together — while JJ (Rudy Pankow) and Kiara (Madison Bailey) finally kissed and got together. It was a satisfying season for the ships this time around, but I don’t think all of them will work out come Outer Banks season 4. I know, I’m sorry!

Kiara and JJ will probably break up in Outer Banks season 4

To be honest, I’m still kind of surprised Kie and JJ ended up together in Outer Banks season 3. The two obviously have had feelings for one another, but with all the drama concerning Kiara’s parents, I wasn’t sure the two were endgame. And I still am not sure. In Outer Banks season 4, the two will probably break up. That could also mean they get back together, but I just don’t see the two lasting in the long run.

The biggest reason is that I can’t imagine Kiara’s parents ever liking JJ. They already didn’t like him ahead of season 3, but when he stole her dad’s wallet, that really sealed the deal. Her parents don’t approve of the Pogues (they’re Kooks, remember) and think they’re a bad influence on Kiara, which isn’t exactly inaccurate. JJ constantly disobeys the law and all of the authority figures in his life, including Kie’s parents. Her parents have really been through the wringer with her, and I don’t see them getting less strict in season 4.

At the end of Outer Banks season 3, JJ and Kiara seemed to be in a good place, though John B didn’t mention how they were doing when talking to Sarah about their new reality after finding the treasure. According to him, Kie’s saving turtles and JJ bought a charter boat, but he didn’t mention them doing anything together. It’s entirely possible the two could drift apart now that they’re home and not in a dangerous situation any longer. But of course, with the scene in the very final moments teasing that the Pogues will be on another adventure in season 4, I don’t think JJ and Kiara will be apart for long.

But will Kiara’s parents let her go on another adventure with the Pogues? It’s very unlikely. They sent her away to a camp for disobedient children called Kitty Hawk in season 3, and JJ was the one who snuck her out! We know fans loved that moment, but there’s no way Kiara’s parents were happy about it.

Plus, let’s face it: JJ isn’t very emotionally intelligent. He gets frustrated with himself easily because he cannot communicate his feelings, and it took him so long to finally admit that he loves Kiara. He could barely even get an apology out! If he’s going to be in a relationship with Kie, he’s going to have to learn how to be vulnerable. But I don’t really see that happening.

I’m glad JJ and Kie shippers got their moment in Outer Banks season 3, but I don’t see them lasting in Outer Banks season 4. Here’s to hoping I’m wrong!