James Alexander Chase Stokes has become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable young faces in recent years. Born on September 16, 1992, in Annapolis, Maryland, this 32-year-old actor transformed from a struggling performer living in his car to the charismatic lead of Netflix’s global hit “Outer Banks.” His journey shows how talent and persistence can change everything.
The 6’1″ tall actor captured hearts worldwide as John B. Routledge, the fearless leader of the Pogues in the treasure-hunting adventure series. His story includes real struggles, genuine relationships, and a commitment to mental health advocacy.
Chase Stokes Bio/Wiki Summary
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | James Alexander Chase Stokes |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1992 |
| Age (2025) | 32 years old |
| Height | 6’1″ (1.85 m) |
| Birthplace | Annapolis, Maryland |
| Education | Valencia College, University of Central Florida, Seminole State College |
| Parents | Jeff Stokes, Jennifer Canning |
| Siblings | Kaden Stokes, Kendall Nicole Stokes |
| Relationship | Kelsea Ballerini (2023-present) |
| Famous Role | John B. Routledge in “Outer Banks” |
| Partnerships | Armani Beauty, Omega, Brooks Running, American Eagle |
Personal Background
Chase Stokes grew up in a broken home after his parents, Jeff Stokes and Jennifer Canning, divorced when he was just four years old. This led to multiple moves – first to Canton, Georgia, with his mother, then to Orlando, Florida, during his teenage years.
He attended Timber Creek High School in Orlando, where a teacher changed his life’s direction. Originally dreaming of becoming a professional ice hockey player, Stokes discovered acting through this educator’s suggestion.
His siblings Kaden Stokes and Kendall Nicole Stokes remained part of his close family circle. The family instability taught him the value of creating his own stability later in life.
Chase Stokes Educational Journey
Chase Stokes earned his bachelor’s degree from Valencia College after high school. He later attended both the University of Central Florida and Seminole State College, exploring different opportunities.
His college years were spent balancing education with his growing interest in acting. The Virgo personality traits of perfectionism and attention to detail served him well in both academics and his craft.
The time spent in Florida’s college system connected him with other aspiring performers who would prove valuable as he built his network.
Early Career Struggles (Pre-Fame)
Before his breakthrough, Stokes faced harsh reality pursuing acting in Los Angeles. In a 2021 appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” he revealed spending two months living in his car, strategically parking in the Hollywood & Highland lot under the TCL Chinese Theatre.
“There was a strategy to it,” Stokes explained. “You don’t want to park in a corner. Then all of a sudden the parking attendant is like ‘That dude is for sure sleeping in here.’ So every day I would try to find a different parking spot and it worked out.”
His bank account hit rock bottom with an overdraft of -$36. He got fired from Elton John’s Oscar party catering job after just 15 minutes for watching the band perform instead of working.
Chase Stokes Acting Career Development
Early Roles and Appearances
Stokes started with small appearances in “Stranger Things” (2016) and “Tell Me Your Secrets” (2021). He was initially cast as TJ in the pilot for “One of Us Is Lying” but didn’t return for the full series due to scheduling conflicts with “Outer Banks” season 2.
His 2018 role as “Young Dale” in “Between Waves” added to his growing resume. Each part taught him something new about the craft and industry.
Music Video Appearances
In 2020, Stokes appeared alongside Madelyn Cline in Kygo’s “Hot Stuff” music video during their relationship. In 2024, he appeared in Kelsea Ballerini’s “First Rodeo” music video, reflecting his current romance with the country music star.
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Chase Stokes Outer Banks Breakthrough
Stokes’ career-defining moment came with Netflix’s “Outer Banks,” though he initially declined the first audition, mistaking it for a “Goonies” reboot. Financial desperation facing eviction convinced him to reconsider.
The show premiered on April 15, 2020, as the world entered pandemic lockdowns. Audiences embraced the escapist adventure set in North Carolina’s coastal communities. Stokes’ portrayal of John B. Routledge resonated with viewers seeking adventure during uncertain times.
As Stokes explained in an Instyle interview, “[Outer Banks] is very raw, gritty, and honest, and I think that honesty, in any capacity, is a really magical thing.”. The series completed four seasons, with a fifth and final season scheduled for 2025.
Career Expansion and Recent Projects
Stokes has strategically diversified beyond “Outer Banks.” His recent work includes Netflix’s “Uglies” (2024) opposite Joey King and upcoming projects “Marked Men: Rule + Shaw” (2025) directed by Nick Cassavetes, plus military thriller “Valiant One” (2025) with Lana Condor.
In 2025, Stokes announced his directorial debut with “I Told the Sunset About You,” a coming-of-age romantic thriller produced by Monarch Media.
Chase Stokes Personal Relationships
Stokes’ romance with “Outer Banks” co-star Madelyn Cline lasted from 2020 to 2021. Both actors navigated working together post-breakup professionally.
In an Entertainment Weekly cover story, Stokes shared that “Mads and I made a promise to each other before we even started dating that the work was always going to come first.”
According to ELLE Magazine, Ballerini made the first move in December 2022, sending Stokes a DM that simply read: “Hii Chase Stokes” at 1:07 A.M.” Their first meeting was memorable: “He hopped out of his Bronco, grabbed my face and kissed me and said, ‘Thank God you’re real,'” Ballerini recalled.
Chase Stokes Physical Transformation and Wellness
At 32, Stokes maintains a youthful appearance for teenage roles through careful diet and exercise. He eliminated fast food and Doritos, focusing on smaller, frequent meals.
His fitness routine includes weight training with celebrity trainer Alex Fine and Pilates sessions. He rediscovered distance running, leading to a Brooks Running Glycerin Max partnership. He listens to “The Office” bloopers while on treadmills.
Financial Success and Brand Partnerships
Industry sources suggest Netflix stars earn $40,000 to $60,000 per episode for established shows. Stokes’ brand partnerships include Armani Beauty, Omega watches, American Eagle, HEYDUDE shoes, Zenni Optical, and Sweet Earth collaborations.
His transformation from overdrafting -$36 to six-figure brand deals demonstrates streaming success potential.
Mental Health Advocacy
Stokes is also an ambassador for Glenn Close’s mental health nonprofit Bring Change to Mind, where he helps raise awareness for young people facing emotional struggles. His “Dear me” tattoo on his right hand represents self-compassion learned through therapy.
“We’re sometimes incredibly hard on ourselves as adults, and if we can learn to look at ourselves through the lens of 8-year-old us, we would probably be a lot better off,” he explained.
He participates in panels and calls with young people, helping others who face similar early career struggles.
Chase Stokes Personal Interests and Lifestyle
Stokes purchased a 1981 first-release “Raiders of the Lost Ark” poster as one of his proudest purchases. His comfort meal is boneless buffalo wings with classic buffalo sauce. He sets sleep timers on his TV and his first album was “Songs About Jane” by Maroon 5.
His favorite restaurants include Obstinate Daughter, Leon’s, Le Farfalle, O-Ku, and Hall’s Chophouse.
Health Challenges and Personal Growth
Stokes and Ballerini have supported each other through challenges, including their dog Dibs undergoing chemotherapy. When Stokes suffered a staph infection while filming in Bulgaria, Ballerini initially thought he was ghosting her.
As of October 2025, they moved in together. “Oh, we’re unpacked, baby!” Ballerini confirmed.
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Cultural Impact and Legacy
Stokes represents streaming era actors who achieve global reach instantly but need authentic audience connections for sustained success. His homeless-to-Hollywood journey resonates with young fans facing struggles.
“I’m not a person who allows myself to get comfortable. I think stagnancy breeds the death of art, truthfully,” he stated in 2024.
Conclusion
James Alexander Chase Stokes transformed from car-dwelling struggles to Netflix stardom and emerging director. His authentic journey from Annapolis, Maryland to global recognition proves persistence through adversity creates opportunities.
With “Outer Banks” ending in 2025, his relationship with Kelsea Ballerini, mental health advocacy, and directorial ambitions position him for continued success beyond his breakout role.
FAQ about Chase Stokes
Q: How tall is Chase Stokes?
A: 6’1″ (1.85 m) tall.
Q: What is Chase Stokes’ age in 2025?
A: 32 years old, born September 16, 1992.
Q: Is Chase Stokes married?
A: No, he’s dating Kelsea Ballerini since January 2023.
Q: What is Chase Stokes’ net worth?
A: Estimated mid-six-figure range from Netflix earnings and brand partnerships.
Q: What is Chase Stokes’ real name?
A: James Alexander Chase Stokes.
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