‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ Creator and Stars Discuss Belly’s Choice Between Brothers in the Season 2 Finale

“The Summer I Turned Pretty,” based on Jenny Han’s beloved book series, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its love triangle, coming-of-age themes, and the picturesque backdrop of Cousins Beach. As season two comes to a close, viewers are left reeling from Belly’s final decision between the Fisher brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah. But while fans are divided on who she should have chosen, the show’s creator and stars have opened up about the season finale and what Belly’s choice means for her journey.

Belly’s Dilemma: The Love Triangle That Keeps Us Hooked

Belly’s Growth Throughout Season 2

Throughout the second season, Isabel “Belly” Conklin faces emotional turmoil. With the loss of Susannah Fisher, the mother of Conrad and Jeremiah, and the uncertainty in her relationships with the brothers, Belly is forced to confront her feelings and make a decision. Her character’s journey is one of self-discovery, maturity, and learning how to navigate life’s complexities.

Belly’s choice between Conrad and Jeremiah has always been at the center of the series, but season two brings new layers of depth to her decision. Conrad’s brooding nature and history with Belly make him a strong contender, while Jeremiah’s unwavering loyalty and affection offer a different kind of love.

The Pull Between Jeremiah and Conrad

In the series, Conrad and Jeremiah represent two distinct types of love for Belly. Conrad is the older, more mysterious brother who has always been Belly’s first love. His brooding, protective nature makes their relationship passionate, yet unstable. Jeremiah, on the other hand, is the carefree, reliable younger brother who has always been a source of comfort for Belly. Their connection is lighter and built on years of friendship.

Season two explores these dynamics even further, diving into the brothers’ contrasting personalities and how each of them fits into Belly’s life. Fans of the show are torn between #TeamConrad and #TeamJeremiah, but ultimately, it’s Belly’s journey of self-discovery that takes center stage.

What the Creator and Stars Say About the Finale

Jenny Han’s Perspective on Belly’s Choice

Jenny Han, the creator of the series and author of the book trilogy, has always had a clear vision for Belly’s love story. In interviews leading up to the season finale, Han has spoken about how Belly’s choice was never about picking the “right” brother, but rather about her personal growth.

Han explained that the love triangle is a crucial part of Belly’s journey into adulthood, representing different aspects of herself and her life. “Belly’s choice isn’t just about love; it’s about what she’s learning about herself,” Han said in an interview. “She’s trying to figure out who she is, who she wants to be, and what kind of love she wants in her life.”

While Han hasn’t directly stated whether she leans toward Conrad or Jeremiah, she’s hinted that the decision Belly makes in season two is just one part of her story. “The love triangle will continue to evolve, and there are more twists and turns ahead,” Han added, suggesting that Belly’s decision in the season finale may not be the final word on the matter.

The Stars Weigh In on Belly’s Decision

The cast of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has been equally invested in the love triangle, and the stars have their own thoughts on Belly’s season two choice.

Lola Tung, who plays Belly, expressed her excitement about the complexity of her character’s relationships with the Fisher brothers. “Belly loves them both, but in very different ways,” Tung shared. “It’s not an easy decision for her, and I think that’s what makes the finale so emotional. She’s torn between what her heart wants and what her mind is telling her.”

Christopher Briney, who plays Conrad, has spoken about the depth of his character’s feelings for Belly. “Conrad is a complicated guy,” Briney said in an interview. “He doesn’t always show his emotions, but he loves Belly deeply. He’s just not always good at expressing it, which causes a lot of tension.”

Gavin Casalegno, who plays Jeremiah, sees his character as someone who is much more open with his feelings. “Jeremiah wears his heart on his sleeve,” Casalegno explained. “He’s always been there for Belly, and I think that reliability is something she values. But at the same time, he’s always in his brother’s shadow, which makes things complicated.”

Breaking Down the Final Episode: Belly’s Choice

The Emotional Build-Up

The final episode of season two is packed with emotional moments, not just between Belly and the brothers but also within the broader story of loss, friendship, and growing up. After dealing with Susannah’s passing and the aftermath of her illness, the tension between the characters reaches a breaking point.

Belly’s interactions with Conrad are intense, filled with unspoken emotions, regret, and confusion. Their history and the weight of everything they’ve been through hang heavily over them. Meanwhile, Jeremiah is a constant source of support, reminding Belly of the love and stability he offers.

Belly’s Decision: What Does It Mean?

In the final moments of the season, Belly makes her choice. It’s a pivotal scene that highlights not only her feelings for the brothers but also her need for clarity and direction in her own life. Without giving away too many spoilers, Belly’s decision seems to reflect her current emotional state. She’s searching for a relationship that makes her feel safe and understood after all the emotional upheaval she’s experienced.

Many fans were surprised by the outcome, as it deviated somewhat from the book. However, Jenny Han has always made it clear that the TV adaptation would not follow the novels exactly. By the end of the season, Belly’s choice feels less like the end of a love triangle and more like the beginning of a new chapter for all the characters involved.

What’s Next for Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah?

Season 3 and Beyond

With the season two finale leaving fans on the edge of their seats, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next? According to both the cast and creators, there’s still plenty of story left to tell. Belly’s decision may have been made, but it’s clear that the love triangle isn’t going anywhere.

Jenny Han has hinted that season three will dive deeper into the complexities of the characters’ relationships. “Season two was just the tip of the iceberg,” Han said. “There’s so much more to explore, and the dynamics between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah are far from resolved.”

Fan Reactions and Theories

As with any good love triangle, fans are divided over Belly’s choice. Social media is buzzing with theories about what will happen in season three and whether Belly’s decision will stick. Some fans are hopeful for a reconciliation between Belly and the brother she didn’t choose, while others believe that her choice was the right one for her growth.

Regardless of which team viewers are on, it’s clear that “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has sparked passionate discussions, and fans are eager to see what the future holds for these beloved characters.

Conclusion: Belly’s Journey Is Just Beginning

The season two finale of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” leaves us with more questions than answers, but that’s what makes the series so captivating. Belly’s choice between Conrad and Jeremiah isn’t just about love; it’s about her growth as a person and what she wants from life. With more seasons likely on the horizon, fans can look forward to watching Belly navigate the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery.