The Summer I Turned Pretty has captured the hearts and souls of millions of viewers, particularly when it comes to the Fisher brothers: Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. The classic love triangle plot, a beloved story arc has divided fans of all ages. Some viewers have taken their opinions a step further, analyzing love languages and projecting future relationships onto “teams.”
Though raised under the same roof, the brothers could not be more different, except for one thing: their enduring love for their childhood friend Belly Conklin. Conrad, the elder, is reserved and often distant, yet deeply loyal. He tends to keep his emotions to himself, expressing affection through acts of service rather than words. Jeremiah, by contrast, is bright, outgoing, and quick to laugh, and even quicker to profess his love. While Conrad exudes a protective, brooding persona, Jeremiah embodies the dependable best friend, promising constant fun.
Audiences have spent three seasons debating the merits of each brother. Emery McGee ’28 and Sydney Wagner ’26 have emerged as die-hard Conrad fans this season, while Audrey Trinen ’26 remains steadfastly Team Jeremiah.
McGee, a viewer whose perspective has evolved over time, described her change of heart: “Belly was going through a lot in seasons 1 and 2, and Jeremiah was better for her in that moment because he was emotionally present when she needed support. Conrad, on the other hand, was struggling with his own issues. But over the years, Conrad really matured.”
Even as Conrad wrestled with his emotions, it became clear to viewers that he experienced a more significant transformation, highlighting the differences in character maturity. McGee elaborated: “Jeremiah is fun for college, but for marriage, Conrad is more stable and supportive. She is going to love him longer.”
Wagner echoed that sentiment, framing the debate in terms of selflessness: “I am Team Conrad because Conrad loves Belly for Belly, but Jeremiah loves loving Belly.” She added that Jeremiah often comes across as a manchild, filled with jealousy and envy toward his older brother.
Not everyone agrees. Trinen, firmly on the other side, believes Jeremiah offers something Conrad cannot. “Jeremiah is better for a healthy relationship,” she said. “Conrad is inconsistent. Jenny Han completely changed his character just to keep the Conrad fan base happy.” For her, Conrad’s reserved nature can feel cold and troubling, creating a potentially toxic dynamic between him and Belly.
Even among Team Conrad supporters, there is acknowledgement that Belly needed time apart from both brothers. McGee admitted, “I didn’t want her to choose herself, but I think it was good she took the time in Paris. She was a mess and needed to be alone.” Trinen agreed, though her perspective differs: “My advice to Belly would be to leave them alone and spend time healing away from all the drama the love triangle caused.”
For some viewers, the debate reflects personal values about relationships. McGee suggested, “If you go for Conrad, you want true love. If you go for Jeremiah, you just want to date your best friend.” Trinen, however, was more critical: “If you are rooting for Conrad, you want a toxic, manipulative man.” She added, “It’s less about who’s right or wrong and more about what kind of relationship you value.”
What remains undeniable is the impact of the story. A young adult novel written over five years ago has become a streaming phenomenon, sparking passionate discussion far beyond the fictional beach house where it all began. Whether fans see Conrad as steadfast and selfless or Jeremiah as joyful and loyal, the argument is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
