Entertainment
Cruel Summer: Is the Amazon Prime show based on a true story?
Cruel Summer has gripped viewers (Picture: Freeform)
Teen drama Cruel Summer has proven to be a hit with fans and critics since its launch on August 6.
The Amazon Prime Video drama, which stars Olivia Holt and Chiara Aurelia, sees Kate Wallis and Jeanette Turner’s lives turned into utter chaos over three summers when the former goes missing.
All 10 episodes were released in one fell swoop earlier this month, and the thriller has everyone talking with plenty wondering whether or not it’s based on a true story.
Easy E writer Bert V. Royal developed the project, but his original plot isn’t actually based on a book or any real life cases.
Before the series launched on Freeform in the US, he said: ‘We’re really excited to tell this story that we hope will spark some interesting conversations about how our society can upend a person’s life and send them to the hell of infamy before — and sometimes even, despite — the facts.’
The premise sees popular girl Kate go missing, while Jeanette – more of an outsider – adopts her life, including her fashion, personality and even boyfriend.
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When Kate is found alive the next summer, Jeanette is accused of being involved in her abduction.
The show’s narrative adds to the mystery, with the series jumping between the summers of 1993, 1994 and 1995 as everything unfolds.
Without giving away any major spoilers, viewers were delighted with the show and particularly loved its twist ending.
‘I’m remembering the ending of Cruel Summer send I’m feeling shaken to my core again,’ one viewer tweeted.
Another said: ‘What a plot twist in the end!’
Will there be a season 2 of Cruel Summer?
Good news – there’s a second series on the way
Freeform President Tara Duncan recently said: ‘Renewing Cruel Summer for a Season 2 was an easy decision.
‘It’s the biggest series debut in Freeform’s history and the audience response has been overwhelmingly positive.
More: US TV news
‘[Executive producers] Jessica [Biel], Michelle [Purple] and [showrunner] Tia [Napolitano] did a phenomenal job telling an addictive story that’s tapped into the cultural zeitgeist. I’m excited to see where they take the series next.’
Napolitano added: ‘Collaborating with Iron Ocean, our dedicated crew, charismatic cast, and our partners at Freeform and eOne has been the best first showrunning experience I could ask for.
‘I am beyond grateful and excited by the amazing fan response to our show! Continuing to bottle Cruel Summer magic for a Season 2 is an absolute dream come true.’
Cruel Summer is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
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