News Summary
The popular Netflix series ‘Outer Banks’ is set to start filming its fifth and final season in Charleston this month. The show has significantly impacted local film tourism and job creation. However, tragedy struck as a lawsuit has been filed against Uptown Social following the tragic death of actor Alexander ‘AJ’ Jennings, raising questions about the responsibilities of establishments serving alcohol. Amid the legal challenges, excitement remains for the show’s continued presence and its economic contributions to the Charleston area.
Charleston – The Netflix teen drama series “Outer Banks” is gearing up for its fifth and final season production in Charleston, with filming expected to commence this month, around mid-June. The show, which follows the adventures of a group of teenagers known as the Pogues and Kooks, has significantly boosted film tourism in the Charleston area and provided stable employment opportunities for local production crews since its inception in 2019.
Amidst the excitement of the final season, tragedy has also struck the film community. A lawsuit has been filed against Uptown Social, a downtown Charleston bar, following the death of Alexander “AJ” Jennings, a stand-in actor for “Outer Banks.” Jennings was fatally struck by vehicles in July 2022. His mother has alleged that Uptown Social over-served the intoxicated driver involved in the hit-and-run, Nicholas Ashton Virgil Price. This legal action raises questions about the responsibilities of establishments serving alcohol and the consequences of their patrons’ behavior.
Price is currently facing charges linked to Jennings’ death, and the lawsuit claims that Uptown Social played a role in the unfortunate incident by permitting Price to become grossly intoxicated before he drove. The bar has firmly denied these allegations, insisting that they did not serve Price that night and highlighting their strict policy against serving intoxicated customers.
The circumstances surrounding Jennings’ death have been further complicated by challenges during the investigation, as several witnesses have reportedly not cooperated with authorities. It has been claimed that Price consumed significant amounts of alcohol both at a Fourth of July party and later at Uptown Social before the collision that claimed Jennings’ life.
In addition to the legal issues involving Uptown Social, the upcoming season of “Outer Banks” continues to draw attention to Charleston’s vibrant film industry. The production moved from Wilmington, N.C., to Charleston primarily due to South Carolina’s more favorable tax incentives and the state’s commitment to inclusivity compared to North Carolina, where controversial legislation had sparked concerns.
The show has filmed various scenes across iconic local locations, such as Shem Creek’s Wreck of the Richard and Charlene and Hunting Island Lighthouse, further solidifying its ties to the area. Drew Starkey, the actor known for his role as Rafe Cameron, confirmed that filming will take place again in Charleston during a recent interview.
Meanwhile, travelers in South Carolina should be aware that REAL ID enforcement began on May 7. As a result, passengers are now required to present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. The TSA has reiterated that a Costco membership card does not qualify as acceptable identification.
In related community news, Joint Base Charleston recently completed a new 95,000-square-foot warehouse, which will serve as a crucial storage facility for supplies related to C-17 cargo planes involved in aeromedical missions. The $21.8 million project aims to enhance on-base medical supply capabilities and response times in emergency situations.
In addition, Trident Technical College has announced the closure of its QuickJobs Training Center in St. George, which will take effect on July 31. This decision is attributed to a shifting demand in the job market as well as improved broadband access in the region, suggesting a strategic realignment for the college.
As production gears up for the final season of “Outer Banks,” while the community grapples with legal obstacles and significant changes, the impact of the show continues to resonate throughout Charleston, shaping both its economy and cultural landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Explore North Carolina’s Scenic Coastline
The Runarounds Indie Band to Star in New Amazon Series
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty Welcomes New Agent
Wilmington Welcomes New Film Production: ‘Driver’s Ed’
Filming of ‘Driver’s Ed’ Set to Begin in Wilmington
Wilmington Welcomes Filming of ‘Driver’s Ed’
Wanchese Fishing Charter Captain Arrested After Police Chase
Discovering North Carolina’s Ideal Retirement Towns
Wilmington Celebrates Heartwarming Successes Amid Challenges
Wilmington’s Film Industry Experiences Exciting Revival with New Amazon Series The Runarounds
Additional Resources
- Count on 2 News
- Wikipedia: Outer Banks (TV series)
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Outer Banks Netflix
- House Beautiful
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Film Tourism
- Charleston City Paper
- Google News: Charleston film industry
