Based on a best-selling trilogy by Jenny Han, the television adaptation of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has become a global sensation and the talk of the summer, streaming in over 240 countries. Its third and final season premiered in July, and it reached an incredible 70 million viewers in just 70 days. The series’ viewership has tripled since its first season, demonstrating its lasting impact.
Starring Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, and Gavin Casalegno, this live-action series is a coming-of-age drama that centers around Isabella “Belly” Conklin and her complicated love triangle between the Fisher brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah. Set in the fictional seaside town of Cousins Beach, the show explores themes of love, family, friendship, and personal growth. In the first season, Belly finds herself torn between the brothers while dealing with the heartbreak of losing their mother, Susannah. The second season ends as Belly finds a sense of closure when she begins a relationship with Jeremiah.
However, at the start of season three, Belly breaks off her engagement to Jeremiah and moves to Paris for a fresh start, unaware that Conrad had followed her there. The finale delivers the long-awaited resolution, as Conrad and Belly finally manage to successfully begin a new relationship.
More than just a love story, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is relatable for younger viewers who are struggling to navigate love and maturity. The show captures the emotional transition from an overlooked teenager to a young adult experiencing heartbreak, loss, and independence. This is what makes it so resonant for youth across the world. Critics and fans alike have applauded the show’s realistic dialogue and emotional performances, especially from Cristopher Briney, whose portrayal of Conrad brings depth to a character that’s torn between the past and future versions of himself. It is no surprise that the third season is Prime Video’s most-watched TV season ever among women ages 18 to 34. Additionally, the soundtrack used for this series is widely praised, as the blend of popular artists such as Chappel Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, and Olivia Rodrigo has increased viewership. Some artists who had their music featured on the show experienced up to a 6,000% increase in song sales and streams.
Overall, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is a tender and nostalgic story about vulnerability, love, loss, and the transition into adulthood. The series encapsulates what it means to grow up, let go, and find yourself.
