Episode eight of Outer Banks season two throws viewers straight back into a storm: this time less metaphorically and more literally as hurricanes lash the remote island sanctuary that’s now The Gold-Runners’ newest hiding place. With a name ripped straight out of biblical lore – “The Cross” – this episode focuses on faith, betrayal, and grappling with the weighty sins of the past.
The central drama revolves around Rafe (played with escalating ruthlessness by Drew Starkey) who’s desperate to reclaim his birthright: the Pogues’ treasure gold. His obsession becomes almost religiously fanatical; a yearning for righteousness warped into seeking dominion through ruthless conquest. But in Rafe, we see the consequences of living life ruled by greed rather than love – ultimately driving him further away from anything genuine. In this context, the symbolic nature of Rafe calling Pope (Jonathan Daviss) “The Prophet” feels eerily accurate. Pope tries to be the voice of guidance within The Cross, seeking a path grounded in logic and morality, a stark contrast to Rafe’s chaotic, emotional spiral. This religious imagery adds an unsettling layer of depth – showing that true faith needs compassion and empathy. These pirates are struggling for something beyond gold, it’s finding a connection and sense of belonging in the ruins left by their reckless desires
Meanwhile, John B (Chase Stokes) attempts to reunite with his dad through a heartbreaking journey filled with unspoken longing. Seeing Sarah (Madi Bailey) walk away from her love life proves just how far these characters will go; even willing to sacrifice personal happiness for the sake of loyalty . John B’s constant search for truth drives much of season two, and his quest resonates with viewers craving clarity amidst the chaotic external forces.
With its intense twists like this one where Sarah appears abandoned near Elroy, The Cross pushes Outer Banks further into a morally gray territory. It challenges audience expectations about who their champions are – showing that no character emerges without flaws, and often sacrificing something more valuable for personal gain. It makes one think: just how deep will their search for adventure – and ultimately, for themselves – send them into danger?
Will they manage to navigate the emotional storms as effectively as the tangible ones surrounding them ?
only the tides of a potential third chapter can tell.
