The Summer I Turned Pretty: Cast and Showrunner Reveal Behind-the-Scenes Secrets & Season 2 Buzz!
Get ready to dive deeper into the world of Cousins Beach! The Summer I Turned Pretty has taken the streaming world by storm, and for good reason. With its captivating love triangle, infectious Taylor Swift soundtrack, and an abundance of stunning hydrangeas, the show has become a cultural phenomenon. But what goes on behind the scenes? We sat down with the stars – Jenny Han (showrunner and author of the beloved book series), Jordan Fisher (Noah), Gavin Casalegno (Conrad), and Lola Tung (Belly) – to spill the tea on everything from their favourite on-screen moments to what fans can expect from Season 2.
Navigating the Love Triangle: Let’s be honest, the love triangle between Belly, Conrad, and Noah is the heart of the show. Jordan Fisher and Gavin Casalegno, who play the brothers respectively, shared their experiences bringing these complex characters to life. "It’s been incredible to explore the nuances of these relationships," says Fisher. Casalegno adds, "The fans are so passionate, and we feel that energy. We want to deliver a storyline that honours the books and keeps everyone invested." Lola Tung, as Belly, acknowledges the challenges of portraying a character caught between two brothers. “Belly’s journey is about self-discovery and figuring out what she truly wants,” Tung explains. “It’s not always easy, and that’s what makes it relatable.”
The Power of Taylor Swift: The soundtrack is undeniably a huge part of The Summer I Turned Pretty’s appeal. Jenny Han, a self-confessed Swiftie, explains the conscious decision to incorporate Taylor Swift's music. “Taylor’s songs perfectly capture the emotions and themes of the story,” she says. “Her music resonated so deeply with the books, and we wanted to bring that magic to the screen.” The cast also shared their love for the soundtrack, with Fisher admitting he’s been listening to Taylor Swift since he was a kid. “It’s iconic,” he laughs.
Hydrangeas and Cousins Beach: Beyond the romance and the music, The Summer I Turned Pretty is visually stunning. The abundance of hydrangeas has become a signature element of the show, adding to the dreamy, coastal atmosphere. Han explains that the flowers were a deliberate choice, representing the beauty and fragility of summer. “Hydrangeas are just so evocative of that feeling of nostalgia and fleeting moments,” she says.
What's Next for Season 2? Without giving too much away, the cast and showrunner teased what viewers can anticipate in Season 2. Expect more emotional depth, further exploration of the characters' relationships, and, of course, plenty of stunning scenery. “We’re building on everything that was established in Season 1,” says Han. “We’re going to delve deeper into the characters' pasts and explore the consequences of their choices.” The stars hinted at some surprising twists and turns, promising a season that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for another unforgettable summer at Cousins Beach!