Fans Celebrate Emotional Finale of “The Summer I Turned Pretty”

The popular series “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has captivated audiences with its emotional narrative and relatable characters, culminating in a finale that resonated deeply with viewers. The show, which explores the complexities of teenage love and personal growth, concluded its third season in October 2025, leaving fans reflecting on their own journeys alongside the characters.

In the series, the main character, Belly, portrayed by Isabel May, navigates her tumultuous relationships with brothers Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. The story begins with Belly’s childhood crush on Conrad, who overlooks her until she blossoms into a young woman. The second season dealt with themes of loss, as the boys’ mother, Susannah, succumbs to cancer, adding layers of emotional complexity to the narrative.

Viewers like Amelia Taylor, a sophomore from Potomac, MD, found solace and connection in Belly’s struggles. Taylor, who began watching the series during her junior year of high school, noted how the show mirrored the real-life challenges faced by many teenagers during the pandemic. “The summer of 2022 was the first one where there were almost no COVID restrictions,” she recalled. “We were still working on climbing out of the internet to in-person interactions.”

The series’ second season aired during a pivotal time for many young adults. With the backdrop of high school transitions and the pressures of applying for college, viewers like Taylor identified with Belly’s journey of self-discovery. “Belly’s life consisted of hanging out at the beach, partying, and navigating her feelings for both brothers,” she explained. “It felt like a summer that many of us wished we had.”

As the third season unfolded, Taylor and her peers anticipated how Belly’s relationship with Jeremiah would evolve, especially after the emotional turmoil of losing Susannah. The finale, which aired in October 2025, saw Belly make a significant choice between the two brothers, reflecting the difficult decisions many young adults face in their transition to adulthood. Taylor described the experience of watching the finale with friends as bittersweet, encapsulating three years of shared emotional investment in the characters’ lives.

While the writing quality of the show has faced criticism, the undeniable connection viewers feel to the characters has made “The Summer I Turned Pretty” a cultural phenomenon. “Every Wednesday night, no matter what else was happening, I tuned in,” Taylor stated. “It became a ritual that provided a sense of community and distraction from our own lives.”

The finale prompted gatherings among fans, showcasing the show’s ability to unite individuals through shared experiences. Taylor noted the crowded viewing party for the final episode, which included friends who had previously been reluctant to watch. “We ordered boba and cheesecake, and when it was over, we all felt a mix of nostalgia and excitement for what’s next,” she said.

As fans now anticipate a potential movie adaptation of the series, many reflect on how “The Summer I Turned Pretty” encapsulated the essence of being a teenager during a transformative time. “If someone asked me what it felt like to be a 16-year-old girl in 2022, I’d show them this series,” Taylor concluded. “It captures the highs and lows of that age, even if it’s exaggerated.”

The emotional impact of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has left a lasting impression on its audience, proving that stories of love, loss, and growth can resonate across generations. With its blend of relatable characters and poignant storytelling, the series will likely remain a touchstone for many young adults navigating their own paths.