The Summer I Turned Pretty Tv Series: Everything You Need To Know In 2026
Hey there, fellow Jenny Han stans and potential new recruits! So, you’re probably wondering, “What’s the deal with The Summer I Turned Pretty TV show?” Maybe you’ve seen your TikTok feed explode with beachy vibes and dramatic glances, or perhaps your bestie has been relentlessly pushing you to dive in. Well, buckle up, buttercups, because by 2026, this show is still the talk of the town, and if you haven’t jumped on board yet, you’re seriously missing out on some summery, angsty, and utterly adorable goodness.
Let’s be real, we’re talking 2026 here. That means the show has had ample time to blossom, bloom, and probably break a few more hearts along the way. If you’re just dipping your toes into the Cousins Beach universe, consider this your friendly, no-pressure guide to everything you need to know. Think of me as your personal Belly Conklin Sherpa, leading you through the sun-drenched, slightly chaotic landscape of this beloved series.
So, What's the Big Idea?
At its core, The Summer I Turned Pretty (or TSITP, as we cool kids call it) is about Isabel “Belly” Conklin. She’s the girl who’s always been on the sidelines, watching her older brother Steven and his best friend Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher have all the fun. Belly has been pining for Conrad since practically forever, a crush so enduring it’s practically a historical artifact. Every summer, her family heads to Cousins Beach, a magical place that’s basically the backdrop for all her teenage dreams and dramas.
But this isn’t just any summer. This is the summer Belly turns pretty. And yes, it’s as big a deal as it sounds. Suddenly, she’s not just the little sister’s tag-along anymore. The Fisher boys, who’ve known her her whole life, start seeing her in a whole new light. Cue the love triangle, the inevitable drama, and the soundtrack that will live rent-free in your head for eternity. Seriously, the music is chef’s kiss.
Meet the Players (You'll Be Obsessed, I Promise)
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff – the characters! This is where the heart of the show really lies, and trust me, you’ll be picking sides and debating your faves for ages.
Belly Conklin: Our protagonist! She’s relatable, a little awkward, and just trying to figure out who she is and who she wants to be. She’s got this incredible journey of self-discovery, and watching her grow into her own is honestly one of the most satisfying parts of the show. Plus, her internal monologues are gold.
Conrad Fisher: The moody, broody one. He’s got that classic bad-boy vibe, but with a deeply sensitive soul underneath. Think angsty poetry and hidden depths. He’s the older brother, the one who’s always been a bit of a mystery to Belly. Their push-and-pull is what makes the show tick. Will he or won’t he? The eternal question!
Jeremiah Fisher: The fun, charming one. He’s the polar opposite of Conrad – all smiles, laughter, and sunshine. He’s been Belly’s friend for ages, and their dynamic is so easy and playful. He’s the one who always knows how to make her laugh. Is he the one who sees her for her, or is it just friendship? The plot thickens!
Steven Conklin: Belly’s older brother. He’s a bit of a goofball, but he’s fiercely protective of Belly. He’s navigating his own teenage life, dealing with school, girls, and the usual sibling shenanigans. He’s the voice of reason, often dragged into the Fisher brothers’ drama.
Susannah Fisher: Conrad and Jeremiah’s mom, and Belly’s mom’s best friend. She’s the heart and soul of Cousins Beach. She’s vibrant, full of life, and has this incredible way of bringing everyone together. Her relationship with Belly is particularly special, and her presence is a constant source of warmth and wisdom.
Laurel Conklin: Belly’s mom. She’s a writer, navigating her own mid-life journey. She has a complex relationship with Susannah, and their shared history adds another layer to the summer drama. She’s trying her best to guide Belly, but like all moms, sometimes she just doesn’t get it.
Cam Cameron: The sweet, earnest boy who shows up and makes Belly question everything. He’s genuinely nice and a breath of fresh air, but you can’t help but wonder if he’s just a plot device to stir the pot. Team Cam, anyone? (Just kidding… mostly.)
Nicole Beatty: Conrad’s ex. She’s the “popular girl” type, and she definitely adds some tension to the mix. She’s got that classic rival vibe going on, and you’ll probably find yourself cheering when Belly shows her up.
Seasons and Storylines (Spoiler-Light, I Promise!)
By 2026, we’ve had a few seasons to sink our teeth into, and each one brings its own brand of delicious drama.
Season 1: The Transformation
This is where it all began. We get introduced to Belly and her lifelong crush on Conrad. The summer she turns sixteen, everything changes. Old dynamics are upended, new feelings emerge, and the classic love triangle between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah officially kicks off. There’s beach bonfires, awkward dances, and the realization that maybe, just maybe, Conrad sees her too. And then there’s Jeremiah, who’s always been there with a smile. It’s a summer of firsts, and it sets the stage for everything that follows.
The season is full of those quintessential coming-of-age moments – first kisses, first heartbreaks, and the realization that growing up is way more complicated than you thought. And the backdrop? Pure, unadulterated summer magic. Think salt in the air, sun-kissed skin, and the scent of possibility.
Season 2: The Fallout and the Reckoning
Season 2 dives headfirst into the aftermath of the events from the first summer. Things are… complicated. The romantic entanglements get even more tangled (oh, the humanity!), and the characters have to deal with the consequences of their choices. We see Belly grappling with her feelings and trying to navigate the rocky terrain of young love. There’s a sense of urgency, and the stakes feel higher.
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This season also introduces new challenges and strains on the relationships we’ve come to care about. Susannah’s health becomes a significant plot point, adding a layer of emotional depth and poignancy. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows; there are tears, difficult conversations, and moments that will make you want to hug your screen.
Season 3 (and Beyond?): The Future Unfolds
Alright, by 2026, we’re hoping for even more TSITP goodness! Based on the books, there’s still so much story left to tell. We’re talking about the characters navigating college, further relationship developments, and dealing with the realities of growing up and facing the future. The show has a knack for exploring these themes in a way that feels authentic and resonant.
Each season tends to build on the last, deepening the characters’ journeys and exploring the complexities of their relationships. If the show continues its trajectory, expect more heartfelt moments, more nail-biting romantic tension, and a continued exploration of what it means to find your place in the world, all set against that stunning Cousins Beach backdrop.
Why is Everyone Still Obsessed in 2026?
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “A teen drama from a few years ago? Why is it still so relevant?” Good question, my friend! Here’s the tea:
- The Relatability Factor: At its core, TSITP is about universal experiences. First crushes, navigating friendships, family dynamics, figuring out who you are – these are all things we’ve been through or are going through. Belly’s awkwardness and her yearning are things so many of us can connect with.
- The Chemistry: Seriously, the chemistry between the main cast is off the charts! You can feel the spark (or the tension!) between Belly and the Fisher boys. Lola Tung (Belly), Christopher Briney (Conrad), and Gavin Casalegno (Jeremiah) are just perfect in their roles.
- The Aesthetic: Cousins Beach is practically a character in itself. The show captures that perfect summer vibe – the sun, the sand, the cute outfits, the dreamy sunsets. It’s pure escapism, and who doesn’t love a good dose of that? It’s the kind of show you can put on when you need a pick-me-up or just want to get lost in a beautiful world.
- The Soundtrack: I already mentioned it, but it bears repeating. The music is phenomenal. It’s curated so perfectly to match the mood and the moments. You’ll be adding the entire soundtrack to your Spotify playlists, I guarantee it. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgic bops and current hits that just fit.
- The Love Triangle: Ah, the age-old question: Team Conrad or Team Jeremiah? This is the ultimate debate, and it’s what keeps us all talking. The show does an excellent job of making both boys compelling and making it genuinely difficult to choose. It sparks endless conversations with your friends!
- The Emotional Depth: While it’s a fun, summery show, TSITP doesn’t shy away from tackling heavier themes. Family issues, grief, and personal struggles are all woven into the narrative, giving the characters and the story real depth and emotional resonance. It’s not just fluff; it’s got substance.
How to Get Your TSITP Fix in 2026
So, you’re convinced, right? You need to watch this show. Here’s how to dive in:
First off, the series is available on Amazon Prime Video. That’s your go-to streaming service for all things Belly and the Fishers. If you’re not already subscribed, well, what are you waiting for? It’s like unlocking a portal to endless summer fun.
If you’re a purist and love the books (which I highly recommend!), you can grab copies of Jenny Han’s original trilogy. Reading them before or while watching can add a whole new layer of appreciation for the adaptation. Plus, you get to see how faithful the show is (or isn’t!) to the source material.
And, of course, there are the fan communities. By 2026, the TSITP fandom is a well-oiled machine. Social media is your friend! Think TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit – these are your hubs for theories, memes, fan art, and of course, endless debates about Conrad and Jeremiah. You’ll find your people, I promise. It’s a whole ecosystem of shared love for this show!
The Uplifting Conclusion
Look, in 2026, the world can feel a little… much. Sometimes you just need a show that reminds you of the simple joys: the warmth of the sun, the comfort of friendship, and the exhilarating, terrifying journey of growing up. The Summer I Turned Pretty is that show. It’s about finding yourself, falling in love (and maybe falling out of it too), and cherishing those magical, fleeting moments that make life so incredibly special.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, I hope this little guide has given you the nudge you need. Dive in, embrace the drama, sing along to the soundtrack, and get ready to fall head over heels for Cousins Beach and the unforgettable characters who call it home. You might just find a little piece of yourself in Belly’s journey, and that, my friends, is the real magic. Happy watching, and here’s to many more perfect summers!