News Summary
Madelyn Cline captures attention with her role as Danica Richards in the film I Know What You Did Last Summer and the final season of Outer Banks. Set in North Carolina, Cline reflects on her emotional journey in both projects, celebrating her comedic edge in the horror film and her character’s growth in the beloved series. Excited yet bittersweet, she embraces her experiences while looking forward to new opportunities in her career.
Wilmington, North Carolina – Madelyn Cline is in the spotlight as she stars in the new film I Know What You Did Last Summer and the final season of the Netflix series Outer Banks. This marks a significant moment for the actress as both projects are set in North Carolina, a state she feels proud to represent through her work. Cline has expressed bittersweet feelings about the conclusion of Outer Banks, although she leans toward appreciating the positive aspects of this phase in her career.
Cline’s character, Danica Richards, in the upcoming film, showcases her comedic talents amidst a horror narrative. The film, which premiered in theaters on July 18, 2025, blends elements from the original franchise while introducing new characters to a contemporary audience. Cline highlighted her enthusiasm for Danica, noting that her character displays humor and earnestness even in frightening situations, contributing to the film’s overall tension and depth.
Throughout the development of I Know What You Did Last Summer, Cline noted that she only learned about her character’s survival late in the filming process. After considering audience feedback, new scenes were filmed in June 2025 to extend her character’s arc, showcasing the film’s commitment to its legacy and connection to the original series’ characters.
The actress also described her unique experience of collaborating on set with Sarah Michelle Gellar, who reprises her role from the original movies. Cline pointed out Gellar’s relaxed and approachable demeanor, which made for an enjoyable working environment. Additionally, a dream sequence featuring Gellar was added post-production, illustrating the filmmakers’ intent to resonate with longtime fans of the series.
As the final season of Outer Banks prepares for its 2026 release, Cline reflected on the growth of her character and the journey she has experienced throughout the series. The cast has expressed gratitude for the opportunities the show has provided, significantly impacting their careers. While she acknowledges the conclusion of her time on the series marks a transitional phase, she is eager to explore new opportunities beyond her roles in I Know What You Did Last Summer and Outer Banks.
Cline, who hails from South Carolina, feels a deep connection to North Carolina forged through her projects. The actress recognizes that her journey in the entertainment industry has come with challenges, including anxiety and self-doubt, but she is determined to navigate these obstacles successfully. In line with her desire to grow as an actress, she has also secured a role in an upcoming action thriller titled Day Drinker, featuring prominent actors Johnny Depp and Penélope Cruz.
As she wraps up her current commitments, Cline remains open to exploring various roles, including potential opportunities like the rumored casting discussions surrounding Spider-Man 4. Despite the industry pressures, she emphasizes the importance of enjoying life on her terms and prioritizing her well-being before venturing back into the dating scene.
The impacts of her current projects and the legacy they represent is a point of pride for Cline, and she is dedicated to bringing the stories of her characters to life, all while shining a light on the beauty and culture of North Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- Hollywood Reporter
- Wikipedia: Madelyn Cline
- New York Post
- Google Search: Madelyn Cline
- Screen Rant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Madelyn Cline
- UPI
- Google News: Outer Banks Madelyn Cline

Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.


