Embracing Midlife's Messiness: A Farewell to Laurel's Journey

Anticipating the Conclusion: Bidding Adieu to a Beloved Character

As the final installment of 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' approaches, fans are preparing to say farewell to the cherished residents of Cousins Beach. Among them is Laurel, a character that resonates deeply with many viewers, particularly mothers. Jackie Chung, the actress behind Laurel, shares her feelings about the show's impending conclusion, describing it as a mix of reunion and departure since the final season was filmed some time ago. She anticipates experiencing the emotional rollercoaster of the series alongside the audience.

The Potential for Return: A Glimmer of Hope for Laurel's Future

While the current season marks an end, the possibility of Laurel's return remains an open question. Chung expresses her willingness to revisit the character in future projects, perhaps even a movie adaptation. Her strong bond with the cast and crew, whom she considers family, fuels her desire for a future reunion, offering a ray of hope for fans who wish to see more of Laurel's story unfold in the evolving landscape of reboots.

Fan Passion and Relationship Dynamics: Navigating the Fandom

The fervent passion of 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' fanbase, especially regarding relationship loyalties, has been a notable aspect of the show's success. Chung admits surprise at the intensity of these reactions, acknowledging that anticipating fan responses, even for adaptations of popular books, is challenging. She recounts a humorous encounter with a stranger who immediately inquired about her 'team' allegiance, highlighting the widespread engagement with the romantic dynamics within the series.

Maternal Pride: Witnessing the Growth of Young Talent

Chung expresses immense pride in the development of her younger co-stars, particularly Sean Kaufman (Steven) and Lola Tung (Belly), who play her children. Her close connection to them extends beyond the set, as she often checks in on them during breaks between filming seasons. Witnessing their growth and success brings her a deep sense of satisfaction, mirroring the maternal protectiveness her character, Laurel, embodies within the show.

Embracing New Beginnings: Laurel's Evolution as an Empty Nester

The upcoming season features a significant time jump, finding Laurel in a new phase of life as an empty nester. With Belly in college and Steven embarking on his career, Laurel gains newfound time and space to rediscover herself. This evolution, coupled with the lingering grief over losing her best friend Susannah, presents Laurel with opportunities for significant personal growth, making her journey even more compelling and relatable to mature audiences.

The Power of Relatability: Connecting with Laurel's Authenticity

Laurel's portrayal as a complex, often imperfect, yet fiercely loving midlife mother has resonated deeply with many viewers. Chung believes that the show's appeal extends beyond its young adult romance, drawing in older audiences who connect with the realistic adult relationships depicted. She credits Jenny Han's writing for capturing the intense emotions and transformative periods of life, and highlights the powerful, supportive friendship between Laurel and Susannah as a key element that drew her to the role.

Normalizing Mature Intimacy: Breaking Stereotypes on Screen

The inclusion of intimate scenes involving mature characters, such as Laurel's car scene with Cleveland in Season 1, is a significant aspect of the show's progressive portrayal of midlife womanhood. Chung shares that she felt comfortable and prepared for the scene, largely due to her existing friendship with co-star Alfredo Narciso. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing intimacy and sexual exploration for women over a certain age, challenging societal norms that often suggest these aspects of life diminish with age or motherhood.

Navigating Grief and Supporting the Next Generation: Laurel's Enduring Love

Laurel's grief over Susannah's death continues to influence her actions in Season 3. Chung reveals that Laurel channels her love and loss for Susannah into her relationships with the children, particularly Susannah's. Feeling like the primary adult figure, she endeavors to provide unwavering support to her late best friend's family, showcasing the enduring power of friendship and familial bonds even in the face of tragedy.

Guidance for the Heart: Maternal Advice for Belly's Journey

When asked what advice she would offer Belly, mirroring Laurel's role as a mother, Chung emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and inner reflection. She advises Belly to listen to her heart and prioritize her personal growth, suggesting that focusing on one's own interests, career, and development will naturally attract suitable partners. This guidance highlights the transitional nature of Belly's life and the vast opportunities for self-exploration that lie ahead.

Balancing Fame and Family: The Impact of Success on Personal Life

The immense popularity of 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' has undoubtedly impacted Chung's daily life, particularly as a working mother. She acknowledges the increased public recognition but stresses the importance of establishing boundaries to protect her family's privacy. Chung consciously explains the nature of her job to her children, ensuring they understand that public attention is a byproduct of her work, not something to be actively sought or stressed over, fostering a healthy perspective on fame within her family.

Looking Ahead: Embracing New Opportunities and Cherishing Downtime

As the conversation concludes, Chung reflects on her future aspirations. She expresses eagerness to find another compelling and interesting role that resonates with her. For now, she relishes the opportunity to enjoy quality time with her family during the summer downtime, remaining open to whatever new and exciting projects the future may hold for her career.