The highly anticipated third and final season of The Summer I Turned Pretty has fans on the edge of their seats, eager to discover Isabel "Belly" Conklin's ultimate romantic decision. The series, adapted from Jenny Han's bestselling trilogy, has captivated audiences with its exploration of summer love, childhood crushes, and the complexities of a love triangle. As the premiere date approaches, author and showrunner Jenny Han is dropping hints about the ending, leaving fans both excited and uncertain about what's to come.
In the books, Belly's heart ultimately leads her to Conrad Fisher, her first love. However, Han has made it clear that the television adaptation may deviate from the source material. This has fueled speculation and debate among viewers, with many wondering if Belly will choose Conrad, rekindle her romance with Jeremiah, or forge a new path entirely on her own.
Han has offered cryptic statements that suggest the ending may not be as straightforward as some expect. In an interview on the Wild Card with Rachel Martin podcast, she implied that Belly doesn't necessarily have to choose either brother. "Well, she doesn't," Han stated. "I don't think she has to choose one". She further elaborated that the "tragedy of the story" is that regardless of the outcome, someone Belly loves will inevitably be hurt. This suggests a more nuanced and emotionally complex resolution than a simple choice between two love interests.
Adding to the intrigue, Han has also hinted at unexpected twists and turns for those familiar with the books. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, she mentioned that the season would include "curveballs" and elements that will surprise even devoted fans of the trilogy. This indicates that while the core themes and character dynamics will remain, the journey to the end will feature fresh and unpredictable developments.
Recent sightings of the cast filming in Paris have further intensified speculation. Fan footage has revealed that both Conrad and Jeremiah will visit Belly in the City of Lights, leading to competing theories about their intentions and the potential for reconciliation. Some believe Jeremiah may be seeking closure, while others speculate that Conrad is pursuing a reunion with Belly. The Paris setting itself is significant, as Belly spends time abroad in the books, although in Spain rather than France, after calling off her wedding with Jeremiah. This period of self-discovery could play a crucial role in her final decision.
Despite the uncertainty, Han has assured fans that the ending will be satisfying. While she doesn't favor "too neat of an ending," her "biggest thing is I really want people to love it, and I want people to feel satisfied with it". This suggests that while the conclusion may not be perfectly packaged, it will be emotionally resonant and true to the characters' journeys.
Ultimately, the question of who Belly chooses remains unanswered. Han's hints suggest a departure from the books, with the possibility of Belly choosing neither Conrad nor Jeremiah, or perhaps finding a different kind of resolution that prioritizes personal growth and self-discovery. Whatever the outcome, the final season promises to be an emotional and unforgettable ride for viewers.