Hollywood is buzzing with exciting news for fans of both Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks and Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novels. Rudy Pankow, widely recognized for his role as Jackson “JJ” Maybank in the popular teen drama Outer Banks, has officially been cast in Universal Pictures’ upcoming film adaptation of Hoover’s novel Reminders of Him. This announcement marks a significant step in Pankow’s career as he transitions from the sandy shores of the Outer Banks to a deeply emotional cinematic project set to tug at audiences’ heartstrings.

A New Role for Rudy Pankow

Rudy Pankow, who captured the hearts of millions as the reckless yet fiercely loyal JJ in Outer Banks, is trading his surfboard for a more dramatic role in Reminders of Him. According to reports from Deadline, Pankow will portray Scotty Landry, a pivotal character in the story [Web ID: 0] [Web ID: 1]. Scotty is described as the first love of the protagonist, Kenna Rowan, and the father of her daughter, Diem. This role promises to showcase a different side of Pankow’s acting range, moving away from the adventurous, rebellious persona of JJ to a more nuanced and emotionally charged character.

Pankow’s casting comes on the heels of his departure from Outer Banks, where his character met a tragic end in the Season 4 finale, which aired in November 2024 [Web ID: 2]. JJ’s death, at the hands of his biological father, Chandler Groff, shocked fans and sparked widespread discussion online. While some speculated that behind-the-scenes drama contributed to his exit, sources close to the production have clarified that Pankow’s departure was a creative decision planned by the showrunners [Web ID: 20]. In a Netflix interview, Pankow himself reflected on JJ’s arc, stating, “When I first found out that JJ was going to risk it all and not make it, I understood it. ‘Cause when I read the character breakdown for the audition, it said ‘loyal to a fault’” [Web ID: 23]. This loyalty ultimately led to JJ’s demise, but it also cemented Pankow’s reputation as a talented actor capable of delivering raw, emotional performances.

About ‘Reminders of Him’

Reminders of Him, published in 2022, is one of Colleen Hoover’s most beloved novels, having sold over 6 million copies in the U.S. alone [Web ID: 5]. The story centers on Kenna Rowan, a young mother who returns to her hometown after serving a prison sentence, hoping to reconnect with her four-year-old daughter, Diem. However, her past mistakes make her journey toward redemption a challenging one. Along the way, Kenna forms a connection with Ledger Ward, a local bar owner who becomes an unexpected ally in her quest to rebuild her life.

In the film, Kenna Rowan will be played by Maika Monroe, known for her roles in It Follows and The Guest, while Ledger Ward will be portrayed by Tyriq Withers, an up-and-coming actor who is also set to star in Jordan Peele’s Him and the revival of I Know What You Did Last Summer [Web ID: 0] [Web ID: 1]. Pankow’s character, Scotty Landry, is a key figure in Kenna’s backstory, adding layers of complexity to the narrative as her past and present collide.

The screenplay for Reminders of Him has been co-written by Colleen Hoover and Lauren Levine, ensuring that the adaptation remains true to the novel’s emotional core. Hoover and Levine are also producing the film through their company, Heartbones Entertainment, in collaboration with Gina Matthews’ Little Engine Productions [Web ID: 5]. The film is directed by Vanessa Caswill, whose previous work includes the romantic drama Love at First Sight, making her a fitting choice for this heartfelt story [Web ID: 4].

A Valentine’s Day Release

Universal Pictures has scheduled Reminders of Him for a theatrical release on February 13, 2026, strategically timed for Valentine’s Day weekend [Web ID: 0]. This release date aligns perfectly with the film’s themes of love, loss, and redemption, making it an ideal watch for couples and fans of romantic dramas. The timing also positions the movie to capitalize on the emotional resonance that Hoover’s stories are known for, much like the success of It Ends With Us, another Hoover adaptation that became a box-office hit in 2024 [Web ID: 7].

The Valentine’s Day release has already generated buzz among Hoover’s dedicated fanbase, often referred to as “CoHorts.” On social media platforms like X, fans have expressed their excitement, with posts highlighting Pankow’s casting and the emotional impact they expect from the film [Post ID: 0] [Post ID: 1]. One user wrote, “Rudy Pankow in a Colleen Hoover movie? I’m already crying,” reflecting the high anticipation for this adaptation [Post ID: 1].

Rudy Pankow’s Rising Star

Rudy Pankow’s involvement in Reminders of Him marks his first major role since leaving Outer Banks, and it’s a significant step in his burgeoning career. The 26-year-old actor first gained prominence with his breakout role as JJ, a character he played across four seasons of the Netflix series. His portrayal of JJ earned him a loyal fanbase, who were devastated by his character’s death but have since rallied behind his new projects [Web ID: 2].

Beyond Outer Banks, Pankow has already shown his versatility in other roles. He played the younger version of Sam Drake in the 2022 film Uncharted, starring alongside Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg, and appeared in the 2023 dramedy Accidental Texan with Thomas Haden Church [Web ID: 7]. Additionally, Pankow has stage experience, having performed as Romeo in a production of Romeo & Juliet at The American Repertory Theater at Harvard University [Web ID: 5]. His diverse portfolio suggests that he’s ready to take on the emotional depth required for Reminders of Him.

Pankow’s casting in Reminders of Him also comes at a time when he’s navigating personal and professional transitions. Rumors of on-set drama with his Outer Banks co-star Madison Bailey, who played JJ’s love interest Kiara, have circulated for years, fueled by social media unfollows and fan speculation [Web ID: 9] [Web ID: 15]. However, both actors have denied any feud, and Bailey even shared a message of support for Pankow after JJ’s death aired, suggesting that their bond remains intact despite the rumors [Web ID: 18]. Pankow has also been vocal about his gratitude for his Outer Banks castmates, giving them a shoutout after the Season 4 finale [Web ID: 18].

The Colleen Hoover Cinematic Universe

Colleen Hoover has become a powerhouse in the literary world, and her novels are increasingly being adapted for the screen. Reminders of Him joins a growing list of Hoover adaptations, including It Ends With Us, which starred Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, and upcoming projects like Verity and Regretting You [Web ID: 5]. The success of It Ends With Us, despite its behind-the-scenes drama, has set high expectations for Reminders of Him, and Pankow’s casting is seen as a promising addition to the project [Web ID: 7].

Hoover’s stories are known for their emotional intensity, often tackling heavy themes like grief, trauma, and redemption. Reminders of Him is no exception, and fans of the novel are eager to see how the film will bring Kenna’s journey to life. With a talented cast and a skilled director at the helm, the adaptation has all the ingredients to be a tearjerker that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As Reminders of Him gears up for its 2026 release, Rudy Pankow’s fans are eagerly awaiting his performance as Scotty Landry. The actor’s ability to portray complex emotions, as demonstrated in Outer Banks, makes him a perfect fit for Hoover’s story of love and loss. Meanwhile, the film’s Valentine’s Day release ensures it will be a must-watch for those seeking a poignant cinematic experience.

For Pankow, this role is an opportunity to solidify his place in Hollywood beyond the Outer Banks universe. With his talent and charisma, there’s no doubt that he’ll leave a lasting impression in Reminders of Him, further cementing his status as a rising star to watch.