In a contemporary Deadline sit‑down, author Elle Kennedy discusses her evolving role as a producer on Prime Video’s adaptation of Off Campus and what fans can expect as the Briar U world grows beyond the first book.
Preserving the heart while expanding the world
The first season follows Hannah Wells, a singer‑songwriter, and hockey captain Garrett Graham, whose fake dating pact blossoms into real feelings. The show foregrounds their bond while tackling heavy themes from the books, including past trauma, without losing the ensemble energy that keeps the Briar U community in play. Kennedy emphasizes she wanted the on‑screen dynamic to feel like the books’ spirit and the characters’ close friendships.
Screen changes and new faces
Kennedy notes several shifts to suit television, from updating the setting’s tech to reimagining one pivotal character: Justin becomes a musician rather than a football player. She also highlights live musical moments and the way songs shape key scenes. As the series unfolds, more Briar U favorites are expected to step into the spotlight beyond The Deal, signaling a broader saga ahead.
As a producer, Kennedy says she visited sets and participated in discussions about the series arcs, even though she wasn’t in the writers’ room. Amazon oversees the TV adaptation, while she watches the process with excitement, grateful to see her books translated to screen life.
Season 2: what Kennedy hints at
While she won’t spill specifics, Kennedy confirms that Season 2 will place new characters at the center and shows like Grace’s introduction add a fresh energy to the cast. The world she created feels scalable for many seasons, with room to explore new corners of Briar U while honoring the original romance.
Beyond romance, Kennedy defends the depth of the stories, arguing that the best entries mix heart with humor and growth. She points to upcoming projects—an installment in the Off Campus universe set around Dean and Allie, plus Thornbird and Bad Idea in the Briar U orbit—as signs of a busy creative horizon.
The interview also touches on how fan engagement shapes adaptation, with Easter eggs and nods that connect to future titles for readers and viewers alike.
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