The global phenomenon “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” based on Jenny Han’s three-book series, premiered its TV adaptation on Prime Video in June 2022. Now in its third and final season, the show has captivated audiences with its weekly episode releases. Directed by Zoe R. Cassavetes, with a recent episode helmed by Han herself, the series stars Lola Tung as Belly Conklin, Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher and Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher. During its second season debut in July 2023, according to The Wrap, the show drew 25 million viewers worldwide within its first week, ranking as the top series among women aged 18-34. Beyond its on-screen success, social media platforms are abuzz with debates over the love triangle between Belly and the Fisher brothers, with hashtags like #TeamConrad and #TeamJeremiah trending frequently. At its core, this rivalry has fueled discussions over a timeless question: Who is the better brother? 

This love triangle in The Summer I Turned Pretty has sparked endless debates among fans: Who is the better match for Belly—Conrad or Jeremiah Fisher? Both brothers bring something unique to the table, but they also have their flaws. While Jeremiah offers stability and open affection, Conrad’s quiet, enduring love ultimately makes him the better choice for Belly. Nevertheless, let’s break down the strengths and weaknesses of each brother. 

Jeremiah: The Fun, Reliable Best Friend 

Jeremiah Fisher is the boy-next-door type, always cheerful, outgoing, and present in Belly’s life. He’s the friend who kept her company and made her laugh when she was sick at the beach house as a child and stood by her side during difficult times. Jeremiah’s love is loud and visible—he openly flirts with Belly, compliments her and provides comfort during moments when Conrad pulls away. For Belly, Jeremiah is a safe and steady figure, especially during emotionally turbulent times like Susannah’s passing.  

However, Jeremiah’s romantic feelings for Belly didn’t surface until the summer she “turned pretty,” raising questions about the authenticity of his love. Was he truly drawn to Belly as a person, or was it her physical transformation that caught his attention? This casts doubt on the foundation of their relationship. Additionally, Jeremiah’s impulsivity and immaturity—such as resorting to physical fights with Conrad and cheating on Belly during a weak moment—undermine his ability to be a dependable partner. While Jeremiah loves Belly in his own way, his actions suggest that his feelings may not be as deep or enduring as they appear. Vivienne Harris, a junior at Plant, however, gives her two cents, saying, “I think that Jeremiah is a better communicator than Conrad in exemplifying that his words align with his actions, and I don’t think the “cheating” was really cheating because they were broken up. It was wrong of Jeremiah, but it wasn’t cheating.” 

 Conrad: The Brooding, Loyal Protector 

Conrad Fisher is the polar opposite of his younger brother. Quiet, brooding, and emotionally complex, Conrad struggles to express his feelings openly, which often leaves Belly confused and hurt. However, his love for her is evident through his actions, even if his words don’t always align. For instance, the infinity necklace he secretly bought for Belly’s birthday shows how much he cares, even when he struggles to communicate it. 

Conrad’s emotional distance stems largely from the immense pressure he carries. Between his father’s infidelity and his mother’s illness, Conrad has been forced to shoulder burdens that weigh heavily on him. His tendency to protect others by shutting them out—though frustrating for Belly—comes from a place of deep love and loyalty. Unlike Jeremiah, Conrad has loved Belly from the start, long before her physical transformation.  

Another junior at Plant, Emma Brown agrees when saying, “I think Conrad is the better brother because he’s been protective over Belly and has cared about her for her whole life, unlike Jeremiah who only recently started liking her.”  

Their bond is rooted in years of subtle, meaningful moments, such as the time he danced with her in the living room when no one else would. Conrad’s love is quiet but powerful, and it ultimately runs deeper than Jeremiah’s. 

Conclusion: Why Conrad Is the Better Match 

While both brothers have their strengths, Conrad’s love for Belly feels more genuine and enduring. Jeremiah may provide comfort and stability, but his actions—such as cheating on Belly, basing his feelings on her physical transformation, and treating their relationship as a competition against Conrad—reveal cracks in their relationship. Conrad, despite his flaws, has consistently shown that he loves Belly for who she truly is, not just what she looks like. Conrad would have let Belly be with Jeremiah, even if it meant he couldn’t have her, to ensure her true happiness. Their chemistry and history make their connection feel deeper and more meaningful. 

In the end, Belly’s heart gravitates toward Conrad for a reason. Their relationship may not be perfect, but real love rarely is. Conrad’s steadfast, quiet love outshines Jeremiah’s, proving that sometimes, the strongest connections are the ones that take time to uncover.