Rudy Pankow is standing up for his girlfriend, Elaine Siemek, in the face of online hate. In a recent interview with Cosmopolitan, the Outer Banks star, 26, opened up about his relationship with Elaine and the negative comments she’s been subjected to since they went public with their romance.
“I think a lot of people can intertwine a narrative and what they want to believe. And they take it out on someone that doesn’t deserve it,” Rudy shared in the interview. He added, “That’s unfortunate and it’s hard. And what’s even more unfortunate is that it’s not in my control. That’s why I spoke up — no one should go through something like that.”
Rudy and Elaine first met on the set of Outer Banks back in 2020, and their relationship blossomed from there. However, as soon as their romance became public, Elaine started receiving a wave of negativity and hate online from some fans. Much of the hate stemmed from baseless rumors and assumptions about her, leading Rudy to feel the need to step in and defend her publicly.
When the hateful comments started to get out of hand, Rudy took to Instagram to address the situation directly. He urged fans to be kind and mindful of their words, especially when it comes to people they don’t personally know.
In his statement, Rudy expressed, “It has gotten to the degree where lies are being spread and accusations are being said that go beyond the normal ‘hate.’ Not only is she not what she is being accused of being, she is the complete opposite and actively is so. Accusing someone you don’t know of being abusive and manipulative is not ok, especially when you don’t know the relationship personally.”
His frustration with the online hate was clear as he continued, “To those who are creating such displeasure and opinions about the one I love and my relationship, it’s time to stop. In this era of social engagement and enlightenment, I want to express the importance of spreading positivity and knowing when it is unfair to express your own distaste for something or someone, especially when you can do it behind an anonymous identity.”
Rudy’s public statement resonated with many, but the online hate hasn’t completely disappeared. Still, he remains firm in his defense of Elaine and their relationship, advocating for a more positive and respectful environment, especially in the age of social media where anonymity can fuel negativity.
The couple has continued to maintain a relatively low profile, focusing on their personal life away from the spotlight whenever possible. Despite the challenges, Rudy has made it clear that he won’t tolerate the unfounded accusations and negativity directed at Elaine.
As for Outer Banks, the popular Netflix show will return soon with Season 4. Part 1 is set to drop on October 10, followed by Part 2 on November 7, and fans of Rudy’s character, JJ, are eagerly anticipating his return to the screen.
