5 Shocking New Directions Madison Bailey Is Taking In 2025: From Pogue To Pop Star

The trajectory of Madison Bailey’s career has exploded far beyond the shores of the Outer Banks, and as of late 2025, she is reintroducing herself to the world not just as an actress, but as a multifaceted artist. The star, best known for her breakout role as the free-spirited Kiara Carrera, is currently navigating a thrilling slate of new projects, including a highly anticipated return to the small screen, major film roles, and a surprising, yet deeply personal, foray into the music industry. This deep dive covers everything fans need to know about her latest ventures, personal life updates, and the powerful advocacy work that defines her current chapter.

The transition from a beloved Netflix star to a credible musical artist is a significant move, marking a bold new direction for the North Carolina native. With fresh projects and a renewed focus on her creative passions, Bailey is proving that her talent extends far beyond the Pogue life, cementing her status as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic young talents in 2025.

Madison Bailey: Full Biography and Profile

Madison Bailey, a rising star in the entertainment world, has captivated audiences with her authentic performances and candid personality. Her journey from a young actress in North Carolina to a global Netflix sensation is a testament to her dedication and talent.

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• Full Name: Madison Lilly Bailey
• Date of Birth: January 29, 1999
• Age (as of late 2025): 26
• Birthplace: Kernersville, North Carolina, USA
• Nationality: American
• Height: Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
• Known For: Kiara Carrera in the Netflix series Outer Banks
• Career Start: Began her professional acting career in 2015
• Notable Early Roles: Appeared in TV series like Mr. Mercedes and Constantine
• Diagnosis: Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) around age 18
• Relationship Status: In a long-term relationship with retired basketball player Mariah Linney

The Shocking New Era: Madison Bailey’s Music Career Takes Off

While fans know Madison Bailey primarily as an actress, 2025 marks her powerful reintroduction as a musical artist. This pivot is not merely a side project, but a serious endeavor, with the release of new singles that showcase a raw, emotional side of her artistry.

A New Sound with "Honestly" and "The Grey"

In a significant career move, Bailey released the single "Honestly," which reintroduces her to the public as a singer. The track, released through Republic Records, surprised many with its depth and emotional resonance. This artistic pivot allows her to explore themes and expressions that differ from her on-screen roles.

The new music, including tracks like "The Grey," is described as a personal and honest reflection of her experiences. She has been open in interviews about how this music is a form of self-expression, allowing her to connect with her audience in a more intimate and unfiltered way. This move into music adds a new layer to her creative identity, solidifying her status as a versatile entertainer.

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This commitment to music is a major focus for her in 2025, suggesting that the industry should prepare for more releases and a potential full album in the near future.

The Future of Kiara: Outer Banks Season 5 Updates

Of course, the question on every fan's mind revolves around the fate of the Pogues. Madison Bailey’s iconic role as Kiara Carrera remains central to her career, and updates on the next season of the hit Netflix show are highly anticipated.

What to Expect from Outer Banks Season 5

As of late 2025, the buzz surrounding Outer Banks Season 5 is strong, with the show expected to continue its high-stakes adventure narrative. Bailey has discussed the show's future, indicating that the cast and creators are excited to continue the story of the treasure-hunting teenagers.

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Kiara’s journey has evolved significantly since the first season, moving from a privileged Kook to a dedicated Pogue, and her character arc is a major anchor for the series. Fans are eager to see how her relationships with John B, JJ, Pope, and Sarah Cameron develop following the dramatic events of the previous season. The continuation of the series is a key part of Bailey's professional schedule, keeping her firmly planted in the Netflix ecosystem.

Upcoming Film Roles: Beyond the Pogue Life

Beyond her television success, Madison Bailey is making a definitive move into feature films, demonstrating her range across different genres. Her upcoming roles showcase a deliberate effort to diversify her portfolio and challenge herself as an actress.

The Rom-Com and Horror Crossover

Bailey is set to star in the upcoming rom-com film Maintenance Required (2025), alongside actress Madelaine Petsch. This project allows her to explore the "com" side of the rom-com genre, a departure from the intense drama and action of *Outer Banks*. She has expressed excitement about the lighthearted nature of the film, which will show a different side of her acting capabilities.

Furthermore, she starred in the teen horror film Time Cut, which was released on Netflix in 2024. In this film, she plays Lucy Field, demonstrating her ability to handle the suspense and tension required for the horror genre. These two films—a romantic comedy and a horror flick—illustrate her commitment to not being typecast and her desire to work on diverse and engaging projects.

Advocacy and Personal Life: Speaking on BPD and Inclusivity

One of the most defining aspects of Madison Bailey’s public persona is her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy and her openness about her personal life. This transparency has resonated deeply with her fanbase, making her a relatable and powerful voice for her generation.

Living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Bailey has been incredibly candid about her diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), a condition she was diagnosed with around the age of 18. She uses her platform to destigmatize the condition, sharing her journey and management strategies. Her willingness to discuss BPD openly in interviews and on social media is a significant act of courage, providing visibility and support for others living with mental illness.

Her advocacy focuses on normalizing discussions about mental health, encouraging fans to seek help, and promoting a message of self-acceptance and inclusivity. This personal openness has made her a role model, extending her influence far beyond her acting roles.

Relationship with Mariah Linney

Bailey’s long-term relationship with retired University of North Carolina Charlotte basketball player Mariah Linney has also been a source of support and public interest. The couple, who have been together since 2020, frequently share glimpses of their life together, offering a positive and visible representation of a queer relationship in the public eye.

Their relationship timeline has been well-documented, with their connection often highlighted as a stable and grounding force in Bailey's busy life. This aspect of her personal life is an important entity for fans, adding to the authentic and honest persona she projects.

Madison Bailey’s Impact and Topical Authority

Madison Bailey's influence in 2025 is a blend of her professional achievements and her personal authenticity. Her career is a masterclass in building topical authority across multiple domains:

• Television Star: Her role as Kiara in Outer Banks makes her an authority on teen drama and Netflix original series.
• Film Actress: Starring in Time Cut (horror) and Maintenance Required (rom-com) establishes her versatility in film genres.
• Musical Artist: The release of singles like "Honestly" and "The Grey" positions her as a new voice in the pop/alternative music scene.
• Mental Health Advocate: Her frank discussions on Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) make her a leading youth voice for mental health awareness and inclusivity.
• LGBTQ+ Figure: Her public relationship with Mariah Linney contributes positively to LGBTQ+ visibility in Hollywood.

These entities—from her North Carolina roots to her work with Madelaine Petsch and her relationship with Mariah Linney—form a comprehensive profile of an artist who is not afraid to be vulnerable and ambitious. As she continues to film Outer Banks Season 5 and promote her new music, Madison Bailey is clearly defining her own narrative, one that is fresh, honest, and undeniably her own.