Bijan Robinson’s character Warrick (center) clashes with the Pogues during the Blackbeard treasure hunt in Season 4, Episode 2.
The Cameo Catalyst: Friendship and Forged Opportunity
Atlanta Falcons star Bijan Robinson landed on the shores of Outer Banks through a real-life alliance with Jonathan Daviss, who portrays Pope Heyward. While visiting Daviss on set, Robinson connected with co-creator Josh Pate, sparking discussions about a potential role. Pate initially wrote a larger character for Robinson, but scheduling conflicts forced a recast. Instead, Robinson delivered a brief but memorable turn as Warrick—a rival Blackbeard treasure hunter in Season 4’s second episode, “Blackbeard.”
Warrick’s Role: A Treasure Hunter Anchored in Conflict
In Episode 2, Robinson’s Warrick emerges on Goat Island alongside competing hunters seeking Blackbeard’s lost amulet. As the Pogues retrieve the artifact, Warrick’s crew ambushes them, triggering a tense boat chase. Though Robinson’s screen time is limited, his physical presence as a formidable adversary left fans speculating about a Season 5 return—especially since Pate hinted at plans to expand the character.
A Legacy of Athlete Cameos: Bacot’s Blueprint
Robinson follows UNC basketball star Armando Bacot, who appeared in Season 3’s “Tapping the Rudder” as Barracuda Mike’s bodyguard. Bacot’s cameo—a single line opposite John B—established Outer Banks’ tradition of integrating athlete cameos. Unlike Bacot, however, Robinson has expressed interest in pursuing acting, teasing “potential parts” beyond Outer Banks.
Table: Athlete Cameos in Outer Banks
| Athlete | Season/Episode | Character | Future Plans |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bijan Robinson | S4, E2 (“Blackbeard”) | Warrick | Open to Season 5/other roles |
| Armando Bacot | S3, E8 (“Tapping the Rudder”) | Barracuda Mike’s Bodyguard | No acting pursuits |
Behind the Scenes: How Robinson’s Cameo Almost Sank
Pate’s vision for Robinson nearly capsized due to NFL commitments. The co-creator had designed a multi-episode arc, but overlapping schedules forced a rewrite. Instead, Warrick was condensed into the Goat Island sequence. Despite this, Robinson’s natural charisma impressed the crew, with Pate noting the NFL star’s focus mirrored his on-field discipline.
Fan Reactions and Future Treasure Maps
Social media erupted after Robinson’s debut, with NFL and OBX fandoms colliding. Many praised his line delivery (“Hand it over, kid!”) and physicality, while others questioned if Warrick could resurface in Season 5. Given the Blackbeard treasure hunt spans the season, Pate confirmed Warrick’s faction remains a threat—leaving the door open for Robinson’s return.
Why Robinson’s Casting Matters Beyond the Cameo
Robinson’s cameo isn’t just crossover trivia—it reflects Outer Banks’ ethos of authentic, unexpected storytelling. By casting non-actors like Robinson and Bacot as treasure hunters or enforcers, the show grounds its escapism in relatable energy. For Robinson, this marks a potential new acting pursuit, aligning with his post-NFL aspirations.
“I loved every second of it. Warrick’s got unfinished business with those Pogues…”
—Bijan Robinson to ESPN on his Outer Banks experience
What Lies Ahead: Warrick’s Uncharted Waters
With Outer Banks renewed for Season 5, Robinson could evolve from cameo to key player. Theories suggest Warrick might ally with villains like Dalia or Lightner—or even battle the Pogues for El Dorado’s gold. As Robinson told ESPN, “there are potential parts in the works,” fueling speculation his acting pursuit is just beginning.
FAQ’s
1. Who does Bijan Robinson play in Outer Banks?
Bijan Robinson plays Warrick, a rival treasure hunter who clashes with the Pogues in Season 4, Episode 2 of Outer Banks.
2. Why is Bijan Robinson in Outer Banks?
Robinson joined the show through his friendship with Jonathan Daviss (Pope) and was offered a cameo role by co-creator Josh Pate.
3. Will Bijan Robinson return in Outer Banks Season 5?
It’s possible. Co-creator Josh Pate hinted that Warrick’s character could expand in future episodes, leaving the door open for a Season 5 return.
4. Is Bijan Robinson pursuing acting after football?
Yes. Robinson has expressed interest in acting beyond his NFL career, with potential parts already being discussed.
5. What episode is Bijan Robinson in Outer Banks?
He appears in Season 4, Episode 2 (“Blackbeard”) during the treasure hunt sequence on Goat Island.