Few teen dramas have captured Gen Z’s attention quite like The Summer I Turned Pretty. The show follows American teenager Belly through her formative years, her relationship with two brothers and the evolving bonds between the mothers and their children. It’s based on the trilogy by Jenny Han, who is also heavily involved with the Amazon Prime series.

The series premiered in 2022, followed by season two in 2023, and its highly anticipated third season arrived in July 2025.

At first glance, it’s another nostalgic summer romance, yet it became the show of each summer. From TikTok edits to endless ‘Team Conrad vs Team Jeremiah’ debates, it has become a defining pop culture moment.

But with the hype, also came criticism, especially around the writing, which many fans, including myself, find lacking.

Why the hype?

The story rests on a classic formula: a love triangle. Conrad, the older brother, embodies the tortured-romantic lover; Jeremiah, the younger brother, silly and warm, is seen as the ‘safer’ choice.

Belly’s mom, Laurel, and the brothers’ mother, Susanna, are best friends. Every summer, the families reunite at the beach house in the fictitious town of Cousins, filled with long-standing traditions and memories. Belly’s friendship with her best friend, Taylor, adds another dimension to the story.

The love triangle sparked heated online debates, but the show’s success goes beyond romance – it’s about relatability.

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Many viewers see themselves in Belly’s awkwardness, first love, fear of rejection and grief.

The show’s aesthetics amplify this nostalgia: idyllic beach houses, late-night swims and a soundtrack – especially Taylor Swift’s songs – carefully handpicked by Jenny Han and perfectly matching each scene.

Social media, particularly TikTok, has supercharged the hype. Weekly episode drops created waves of edits, clips and discussions, making the experience communal rather than solitary. Viral edits not only relived the story, but kept debates alive about which brother Belly should choose.

Writing controversy

Season three drew 25 million global viewers in its first week, yet many fans criticised the writing. Dialogue often felt flat, side plots added little and pacing issues left viewers frustrated. Some episodes dragged, while others rushed key moments – disappointing for a long-awaited finale.

The acting also received mixed opinions. Some emotional scenes, especially between Belly and Conrad, landed well, others felt awkward. The finale also divided fans. Some felt it wrapped things up beautifully, while others thought it was rushed or too predictable. A planned film may offer a more satisfying conclusion.

So, is it worth watching?

If you enjoy messy love stories, teenage drama and the thrill of first crushes, The Summer I Turned Pretty is definitely worth it. Despite its flaws and criticisms, it remains a warm and nostalgic escape into the beach-house world. It may not be perfect, but it’s easy to see why it has become a comfort show for so many.