Prime Video’s “The Summer I turned Pretty,” created by Jenny Han, aired its final episode on Sept. 15 after three seasons. The show stars Lola Tung as Belly Conklin, Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher, and Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher.
Beyond the story and performances, the soundtrack of the final season was stacked with songs from popular mainstream artists such as Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter. Standout tracks included “You’re Losing Me” by Swift and “Lacy” by Rodrigo, each perfectly capturing the emotional weights of key scenes. While many of these songs were well timed and elevated the story, one can’t help but wonder if the soundtrack would’ve served well if there were more underground artists included to bring a fresher, more unexpected edge. Overall, the music beautifully underscored the show’s themes of heartbreak, nostalgia and growth.
The season continues the long-standing love triangle between the Fisher brothers and Belly, centering on the buildup to Belly’s and Jeremiah’s wedding. The engagement itself begins on unstable ground after Jeremiah’s proposal came as a last ditch effort to save their relationship following an incident that happened during spring break, revealed in the second episode.
The ring was barely noticeable in size and reflects the low effort that came from Jeremiah in the proposal as he didn’t even bother to kneel. Both sets of parents ultimately refused to support the wedding, viewing the couple as immature and unprepared for marriage.
Jeremiah’s irresponsibility surfaces throughout the season. He becomes a “super senior” after failing to enroll in a class needed to graduate, costing him a whole semester’s worth of tuition. His impulsive spending habits and lack of communication about a new job highlight his inability to handle adult responsibilities. Belly’s immaturity mirrors his as she struggles to find an identity outside of their relationship, even giving up on her childhood dream to spend more time with Jeremiah at college.
Meanwhile, Conrad’s character development stands out this season. Once emotionally avoidant, through therapy he learns to communicate openly and maturely. His yearning, once marked by silence, transforms into accountability and emotional honesty.
His “I thought you knew” mindset changes into “I’ll tell you loud and clear.” This dynamic reversal creates a deeper contrast between the Fisher brothers as Conrad’s growth becomes more profound against Jeremiah’s immaturity.
However, towards the finale, Belly’s story shifts back to herself. She learns to separate her identity from the Fisher brothers and truly comes into her own, and learns to be content and resilient by herself while rediscovering the dreams she once abandoned for love. Her newfound independence was needed to be able to navigate through later in life.
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” remains an exaggerated yet honest portrayal of young love and emotional dependency. Through its exploration of anxious attachment, insecurity and miscommunication, the show resonates deeply with viewers navigating early adulthood. It’s about navigating the confusion, growth and heartbreak that define your early twenties.
While the series finale closes the chapter on the Fisher-Conklin love triangle, rumors of a film adaptation suggests the story may not be over just yet.
