Mia Challis Dishes on Outer Banks Season 4 and Her Rebellious Character, Ruthie

If you're a fan of Outer Banks who's been tuning into the latest season of the hit Netflix series, there's no doubt that you have opinions about Mia Challis's new character, Ruthie.

A new addition to Season 4 of Outer Banks, Ruthie is a deliciously toxic addition to the Kooks, dating Austin North's character, Topper, and serving as a major antagonist to the Pogues—particularly Madelyn Cline's Sarah. Part 2 of Season 4 premiered on Nov. 7, giving fans even more reasons to love-to-hate Ruthie, serving as a major departure from Mia's previous fan-favorite roles in Clickbait and The Last Bell. Lucky for all of us, the Australian actress isn't much like her onscreen counterpart, and we had the pleasure of chatting with Mia on joining the Outer Banks family and what it meant to bring Ruthie to life in the interview below.

Sweety High: When did you discover your passion for acting? Was there a specific a-ha moment that made you realize it was the path for you?

Mia Challis: I've known I loved acting from a very young age, especially after participating in school plays. There was something about being on stage, stepping into different characters and experiencing the world through their eyes that really captivated me. One moment that stands out was when I watched The Parent Trap as a kid. I remember being completely blown away when I realized Lindsay Lohan was playing both twin roles. I thought, "I want to do that."

For me, it wasn't one specific moment but rather an accumulation of smaller experiences. I've always been deeply moved by movies—whether it was laughter, tears or just the emotional journey of the story. I wanted to have the ability to make people feel something the way movies made me feel. Acting was the way to do that. Movies became my escape as a kid; they provided a way to step outside myself and experience the world through different perspectives.

(Photo credit: Stef King)

 

SH: What would you say was your first big break?

MC: I'd say my first big break was Clickbait on Netflix. It was the first time I worked on a major production with a big crew and cast. Being on that set, I realized just how much goes into bringing a show to life. It was a huge learning experience for me.

 

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SH: Were you a fan of Outer Banks before you were cast? What does it mean to you to join such a beloved series?

MC: Oh, absolutely! Like so many people, I watched Outer Banks during the pandemic, and I was immediately hooked. The characters, the storylines, the whole vibe of the show—it felt like something really special. I loved how the show mixes adventure, drama and the whole Pogue vs. Kook dynamic. It's one of those shows you just get sucked into, and the chemistry between the cast was so undeniable. So, when I found out I was going to be part of the cast in Season 4, I was so excited!

It's honestly such an honour and a privilege. The fanbase for Outer Banks is so passionate, and there's a reason for that. The cast and crew have worked incredibly hard to build this world, and it's really humbling to come into that and be a part of it. I wanted to make sure I brought my A-game and respected everything they had already created.

 

SH: Can you tell us about your character, Ruthie? Where does she fit into the story of Outer Banks?

MC: Ruthie is definitely a wild child! She's a new character introduced in Season 4, and she's Topper's new girlfriend. Ruthie is a "Kook"—so she comes from a wealthy family and fits into that elite, privileged world of Outer Banks. She's feisty, rebellious and loves stirring the pot. She doesn't make life easy for the Pogues. She's all about chaos and playing her part in the ongoing tension between the two groups. Her personality really adds a new layer to the dynamic, and she's someone who doesn't shy away from a challenge—especially when it comes to making trouble.

 

SH: Would you say you're like Ruthie in real life? In what ways are you similar, and in what ways are you very different?

MC: I would hope I'm not like Ruthie! She's more of a rebel than I ever was. I was never that rebellious as a teenager—quite the opposite, actually. Ruthie is impulsive; she throws caution to the wind and she doesn't care much for consequences. I, on the other hand, am more of a planner and a thinker. However, there are some similarities. We're both incredibly determined and independent. Ruthie doesn't rely on anyone else, and I think we share that trait—her drive to go after what she wants.

 

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SH: How did it feel hopping into the fourth season of an established show?

MC: It's always a little intimidating coming onto an established show with such a tight-knit cast and crew. There's already a rhythm and dynamic that's been built over the previous seasons, and your job as a new addition is to find your place and sync up with that. But I have to say, the Outer Banks team made it so easy for me. From the very first day on set, I felt welcomed with open arms. The energy on set is incredible—fast-paced, high-energy and fun. There's a lot of room for improvisation, and things move quickly. The cast has such an amazing dynamic and I feel lucky to have joined the team.

 

SH: What's been your dynamic with the cast so far?

MC: Honestly, it's been amazing. Everyone on the cast is incredibly talented and really supportive. I've learned so much just by watching them work. They've built such a strong camaraderie over the years, and it was so easy to come into that environment because everyone is so kind and welcoming. The chemistry between the cast is undeniable, and I'm just happy to be a part of that.

 

SH: What was your favorite memory from the set?

MC: One of my favorite memories was getting to do some of my own stunt driving on the beach. It was a little nerve-racking at first, but so much fun. There's something exhilarating about being in control of the vehicle and actually doing the stunt rather than pretending. Plus, it was a great bonding experience with the team and the stunt coordinators. I'll never forget that moment!

 

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SH: Where else can we see your work right now?

MC: Right now, you can catch me in Killer Nurses on Tubi, which was directed by Haylie Duff. It's a fun, intense thriller that I'm really proud of. I also just wrapped a feature film called Diabolic, which we shot in Adelaide, Australia, and a film in Houston that I'm super excited about. Stay tuned because I've got some more projects coming up that I can't wait to share with everyone!

 

SH: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

MC: I just want to say a huge thank you for the interview. And before I go—save the turtles!

 

For more interviews with the stars of our favorite series, click HERE to hear from Akaio Thiele, star of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.