'The Summer I Turned Pretty' to continue with film after series finale

Prime Video has confirmed that “The Summer I Turned Pretty” will continue with a feature film, following the conclusion of the series’ third and final season.

The announcement was made on Wednesday, September 17, at the show’s finale celebration in Paris, where cast members, including Lola Tung and Christopher Briney, attended. 

Fans were surprised by the reveal, which came just as the emotional series wrapped its last chapter.

The movie will be written by author Jenny Han, who created the original book trilogy and adapted it to a series. 

Speaking about the decision, Han hinted that there was still one more milestone in Belly’s journey, one she felt only a film could capture.

“There is another big milestone left in Belly’s journey, and I thought only a movie could give it its proper due. I’m so grateful to Prime Video for continuing to support my vision for this story and for making it possible to share this final chapter with the fans,’ she said in a statement.

For those unfamiliar with the series, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” follows the story of Isabella “Belly” Conklin, played by Lola Tung, a young girl who spends her summers at the beach with her family and the Fisher brothers, Conrad, played by Christopher Briney, and Jeremiah, played by Gavin Casalegno. 

Belly is the main character, an ordinary girl who experiences a transformative summer at Cousins Beach. 

That summer, Belly turned sixteen and blossomed into a beautiful young woman, attracting attention and navigating the complexities of her newfound beauty. 

As she grows older, she finds herself caught in a love triangle between the two brothers, leading to a summer that will change her life forever. 

Since premiering in 2022, the show has resonated with audiences around the world for its mix of nostalgia, first love and heartbreak.

In South Africa, the finale drew its own celebration, with watch parties hosted in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. 

Fans gathered to witness the last episode together, where they were treated to a special message from Han in the end credits.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the love you’ve shown The Summer I Turned Pretty all these years,” she wrote, also teasing the possibility of a future spin-off.

Amazon MGM Studios praised the series’ impact, saying it created moments of joy, nostalgia and connection for audiences everywhere. 

Courtenay Valenti of Amazon MGM Studios and Vernon Sanders of Prime Video said they were excited to partner with Han again for what they promise will be an unforgettable conclusion.

While plot details of the film are still under wraps, fans can expect it to serve as the final chapter of Belly’s story.