Team Jeremiah vs. Team Conrad

⚠️SPOILERS ARE PRONE IN THIS ARTICLE ⚠️

With the July 2025 premiere of The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 drawing in a record 25 million global viewers in its first week, Jenny Han’s sun-soaked teen drama has become a defining coming-of-age series. At the heart of its popularity is Belly Conklin’s long-running choice between the two Fisher brothers - Conrad, whose brooding nature and hidden tenderness make him magnetic (though unpredictable at times), and Jeremiah who’s warmth and stability make him an easier (if not more boring) contender. This essay will compare how the two brothers are portrayed in the new season, discussing each team’s views, and ultimately deciding which brother we think should win this captivating love triangle.

Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty often see Jeremiah as the obvious choice for Belly, and it’s easy to understand why. He is open, warm, and emotionally available, communicating his feelings directly instead of hiding them. Throughout the series, Jeremiah offers Belly a sense of security and constant support, portraying the image of a happy couple and a healthy relationship. Their relationship involves them spending much of their time together and being excited to see the other, and they are happy to be with the other person, their love for the other bleeding through every interaction. Before Jeremiah cheats on Belly, their relationship inspires viewers to have a transparent and trusting relationship. Choosing Jeremiah would mean Belly is with someone who consistently prioritises her feelings and stability.

Yet Jeremiah’s charm hides flaws that become harder to ignore as the story progresses. His impulsiveness and occasional jealousy can make him a less reliable partner in the long run, as evidenced when he cheats on Belly while on vacation in Cabo, and again when he continues to put work first. His immaturity is also emphasised when he fails to graduate university on time in the first episode, and then gets upset when his father is less than happy about it. Younger readers might interpret this as being fun, while older ones recognise that warmth without steadiness can lead to instability later in life. Jeremiah’s openness is appealing, but without growth and self-control, it may not be enough to sustain a lasting, healthy relationship.

Conrad, by contrast, offers a different kind of love — one built on depth, patience and maturity. His reserved nature stems from carrying the burdens of his family, a sign of responsibility and protectiveness rather than indifference. This makes him harder to read but also more capable of long-term thinking, a trait that grows increasingly valuable as Belly herself matures. This can especially be seen in Episode 5, when he takes Belly shopping while Jeremiah is stuck at his internship.Teens may find his “brooding” exterior romantic, but adults appreciate the steadiness and loyalty he represents. With Conrad, Belly has the chance to grow into a relationship rooted in patience, resilience and enduring love rather than momentary excitement.

Of course, Conrad is far from perfect. His emotional distance and difficulty expressing love openly can leave Belly uncertain and hurt. At times, he pushes her away even when his feelings run deep, creating the kind of mixed signals that frustrate younger viewers and worry older ones who know that lack of communication can doom even strong relationships. Without learning to be vulnerable, Conrad risks losing Belly despite the powerful bond they share.

In conclusion, Conrad’s strengths outweigh his shortcomings. His depth, loyalty and sense of responsibility make him the partner who can grow with Belly into adulthood rather than simply comfort her in the moment. While Jeremiah’s openness is attractive, Conrad offers something more enduring: a love that has weathered loss, responsibility and self-sacrifice. That’s why, many of us are firmly on Team Conrad — because his love story with Belly promises a vision of true love and the epitome of care.