From Page to Prime: Everything You Need to Know About the ‘Off Campus’ Series Premiere
The wait is finally over for fans of Elle Kennedy’s bestselling romance novels. Today, May 13, 2026, Prime Video officially releases the first season of Off Campus, a highly anticipated adaptation of the hit book series that has remained a staple of the romance genre since the publication of The Deal in 2015.
The Premise: A High-Stakes Academic Deal
Set against the backdrop of the fictional Briar University in Massachusetts, the series centers on the complicated dynamic between music major Hannah and hockey team captain Garrett. The plot is set in motion when the two strike a strategic deal: Hannah agrees to help Garrett study for their philosophy class, and in return, she can use him to make her crush, Justin, jealous.
While the series leans into the tension and “sparks” expected of a college romance, it also draws comparisons to cinematic classics, offering a modern homage to the charm and character dynamics found in films like When Harry Met Sally…
Beyond the Romance: Tackling Complex Themes
While Off Campus delivers the emotional intensity and romance characteristic of Kennedy’s work, the television adaptation aims to provide significant depth beyond typical Young Adult tropes. The series is designed to tackle heavy, real-world themes, including sexual agency, sexual pleasure, trauma, abuse, and sexual assault.
Cast and Production: Bringing Briar University to Life
Showrunner Louisa Levy faced the formidable task of adapting Kennedy’s expansive literary universe into a concise eight-episode debut season. The production features a dedicated ensemble cast to bring the students of Briar University to the screen:
- Ella Bright as Hannah
- Belmont Cameli as Garrett
- Josh Heuston as Justin
- Stephen Kalyn
- Mika Abdalla
- Antonio Cipriano
- Jalen Thomas Brooks
Key Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Streaming Platform | Prime Video |
| Premiere Date | May 13, 2026 |
| Season 1 Format | 8 Episodes |
| Original Author | Elle Kennedy |
| Setting | Briar University, Massachusetts |
Looking Ahead
As the first season begins its run, the series will likely be judged on its ability to balance steamy romantic tension with the serious thematic elements that fans of the books expect. For long-time readers, it is a chance to see the Briar University universe realized visually; for new viewers, it serves as a gateway into a massive, established romantic world.