Lola Tung, the actress known for portraying Isabel "Belly" Conklin in the Amazon Prime Video series "The Summer I Turned Pretty," has recently discussed the intimate scenes in the show, particularly one with her co-star Christopher Briney. The series, adapted from Jenny Han's novels, concluded its third season, and a film adaptation is already in the works.
In the series finale, Belly and Conrad, played by Christopher Briney, finally reunite in Paris. Their reunion includes a "steamy" scene that takes place in a taxi, a hallway, and ultimately Belly's bed. According to Tung, the scene is a "f--- it moment" where both characters decide to follow their hearts after years of back and forth. Briney mentioned that they worked with an intimacy coordinator to choreograph the scenes, focusing on making the moment feel mutual and earned.
Tung revealed that her mother was present at the series finale event in Paris during the screening of the intimate scene. She said her mother has "always been really supportive and understands that it's all a part of the job and art". Tung expressed gratitude for her mother's presence and support.
The sex scene between Belly and Conrad in the finale wasn't the first for the characters in the series. In the second season, a flashback scene shows Belly losing her virginity to Conrad. This particular moment deviated from the books, where Belly does not lose her virginity to either Conrad or Jeremiah. Jenny Han, who is also the showrunner, stated that it was important for that moment to be a "very nice memory" for Belly, driven by her own desire.
Tung has spoken about the importance of Belly choosing herself in the series. She doesn't understand why fans feared Belly choosing herself instead of either Fisher brother. Tung argues that Belly had to choose herself to make the right decision about her love life, a lesson she hopes viewers take to heart.
Following the series finale, it was revealed that "The Summer I Turned Pretty" saga would be wrapped up in a feature film, with Jenny Han co-writing the movie. The main cast, including Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, and Gavin Casalegno, are expected to return.
Tung's portrayal of Belly has resonated with audiences, and she has become a prominent figure in young adult entertainment. Besides "The Summer I Turned Pretty," Tung made her Broadway debut as Eurydice in the Tony-winning musical "Hadestown" in 2024. She is also part of the ensemble cast of "Forbidden Fruits," a witch horror film slated for a 2026 release, and is attached to star in the film "The Young People".