The light of summer may be fading, but season two of the hit drama The Summer I Turned Pretty is still bright in fans’ minds. Last summer, many declared the show as a classic summer escape. Season two takes on a more solemn tone, exploring more complex and dark themes beyond the haven of Cousin’s Beach. The main character Belly, played by actress Lola Tung, is struggling to navigate the complicated world of grief, coming of age, and her shifting relationships. Specifically, the relationship with her two closest family friends, Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. The show is focused on following the love triangle between the two brothers and Belly as the boys’ mother, Susannah, passes away. If this death wasn’t enough, all three were at risk of losing Susannah’s house. The show encapsulates the essence of summer, but this year, it also reflects a modern time capsule of 2023 culture. The show also makes a point of incorporating contemporary pop stars, like six of pop phenom Taylor Swift’s songs appearing across the season, notably select hits from her most recent works “Midnights” and “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version).” The move that may delight some but potentially annoy those with different musical tastes. Video student Marlise Atkins (‘26) believes “the music in season two was really good but the overall plot of the first season was better.”
While season two was still unforgettable, it drastically shifted from the light-hearted appeal of season one. Some highlights of the season include vast improvement in the actors’ performances. Besides a few awkward moments, Lola Tung, in particular, shines as she does a near-perfect job portraying the broad range of emotion Belly endures throughout the season. Rain Spencer, who plays Belly’s best friend Taylor, received more screen time and proved to viewers that she is more than just Belly’s best friend. The overarching appeal to the show is the chemistry within the teenage friend group. Not only does it ensure the show and cast remain memorable, but it also allows teens to personally connect with the show as they see aspects of their lives and relationships translated onto TV.
Other changes to the show involve the introduction of Fisher’s cousin, Skye. Skye’s presence in the main friend group was met with strong dislike from fans who felt like the addition disrupted existing friendships. This negative reaction rose to concerning levels of harassment toward the actress, Elsie Fisher. While it’s normal to become invested in fictional characters, the bullying crossed ethical lines. Additionally, viewers saw a huge shift in Belly’s behavior and actions.
Sofia Butini (‘26) says “she lacks independence and confidence and frequently shapes herself to meet the interests of the brothers rather than having her own.” Also, many people are getting sick of Belly choosing whichever brother is giving her attention at the moment. She has trouble deciphering Conrad and Jeremiah’s feelings. The season also included various flashbacks, specifically as a means to display Conrad and Belly’s relationship.
Despite a few flaws, such as the slower start to the show because of the flashbacks, season two still remains a must-watch. With fun characters we’ve learned to love from season one, as well as new characters that provide a deeper insight into the story, season two promises to be enjoyable. The final verdict: you should watch season two, but it may not be worth the $14.99/month for Amazon Prime Video, the only platform the show is available on, if you don’t have it already. The liveliness of the first season gives way to more genuine and mature emotions, demonstrating Belly’s gradual shift into adulthood.
The show has been renewed for a third season. Currently, not much is known about the third season besides the fact that it is going to be the longest of them all with ten episodes. At the moment there is no set date for the release of season three, and there likely won’t be any further information until the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the labor union that represents actors who are currently striking due to wages, cuts a deal with studios. However, it is predicted the show will stick to its summer release schedule.
