Streaming audiences can't get enough of book-to-series adaptations, and Prime Video's latest hit, Off Campus, is proving that the romance genre is hotter than ever. Based on Elle Kennedy's beloved book series, the show has quickly become a must-watch, blending the competitive hockey energy of Heated Rivalry with the sprawling, multi-couple romance structure that made Bridgerton a global phenomenon. With Season 1 already a viral sensation, production on Season 2 is underway, promising even more steamy encounters and on-ice action.
What Is 'Off Campus' About?
At its core, Off Campus is a fake-dating romance set in the world of college hockey. Season 1 follows music major Hannah Wells (Ella Bright) and legacy hockey player Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli) as they enter a pact that starts as a convenient arrangement but quickly turns into something real. Unlike the toxic relationships in shows like Tell Me Lies, this series emphasizes healthy communication, enthusiastic consent, and mutual respect. The drama comes from external pressures, not from the couple themselves, making their love story refreshingly mature.
The show also gives depth to its supporting characters. Hannah's best friend, Allie Hayes (Mika Abdalla), navigates her own post-breakup struggles and a potential romance with Garrett's teammate, Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn). Rather than villainizing her choices, the series treats her journey with empathy, proving that emotional growth can be just as compelling as a steamy hookup.
Like 'Heated Rivalry,' the Love Story Heats Up Organically
As Off Campus finds its viral moment, showrunner Louisa Levy has hinted at more hockey and more sex in future seasons. In an interview with the New York Times, Levy noted the appeal of taming the bad boy, but Off Campus subverts that trope by making its male leads genuinely good partners. Compared to the red flags of Tell Me Lies' Stephen DeMarco, the Briar U hockey team is full of green flags. Even Dean, who initially insists on staying a ladies' man, shows signs of developing real feelings for Allie.
Like 'Bridgerton,' a Deep Roster of Beloved Characters
With a sprawling ensemble cast, Off Campus borrows the Bridgerton formula of focusing on a new central couple each season. Season 1 wraps up Hannah and Garrett's story sweetly, while planting seeds for future romances. Season 2 will shift focus to John Logan (Antonio Cipriano) and Grace Ivers (India Fowler), but previous couples will remain part of the narrative. This structure gives the series longevity and keeps viewers invested in the entire Briar U world.
The show's bingeable nature is a key part of its appeal. With a big cast and a different love story every season, Off Campus is designed to be devoured in a single sitting. Diehard fans are already rewatching in anticipation of the next season, which is scheduled to begin production soon. With so much source material to draw from, Off Campus is well on its way to becoming streaming's next big romance success story.
For more on the show's stars and their upcoming projects, check out our coverage of Off Campus and The Love Hypothesis Stars Headline Prime Video's Obsessed Fest YA Celebration. And if you're looking for more binge-worthy content, don't miss our list of Best Shows to Binge on Prime Video This Week.
