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Elle
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Elle
How Jenny Han Went From Taking Orders at Olive Garden to Writing Your Favorite Love Stories
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. In ELLE's series Office Hours, we ask people in powerful positions to take us through their first jobs, worst jobs, and everything in between. This month, we spoke with Jenny Han, the bestselling author of the To All the Boys I Loved Before and The Summer I Turned Pretty book series. She's also brought the beloved coming-of-age stories to the screen as the executive producer of the To All the Boys film trilogy and creator and executive producer of the spin-off, XO, Kitty. And, as the creator and showrunner of The Summer I Turned Pretty's TV adaptation, she kicked off the series' third and final season this month, amassing 25 million views globally on Prime Video in a week. While the show is coming to a close, Han has more projects in the works, thanks to an overall deal with Amazon Studios and another season of XO, Kitty on the way. As her literary and cinematic universe continues to expand, the stories still hit close to home. 'This idea that you can make mistakes and stumble but you're still a person that's worthy of love is something that's really important to me, and [it's] something that I think I explore in all my characters,' she says. What also stands out about her work onscreen is that it revolves around Asian American young women. The To All the Boys film, which came out in 2018 and became a modern classic, marked a rare case of an Asian woman, Lana Condor, leading a rom-com. Lola Tung (who stars as Belly in TSITP) and Anna Cathcart (who plays the titular role in XO, Kitty) are also both of Asian descent. Han, who is Korean, praises the growing representation. 'That makes me really proud,' she says. 'It's very exciting to see that.' Below, the multi-hyphenate discusses her unique approach to writing, her go-to advice for authors, and her thoughts on the TSITP fandom. I had campus jobs, but my first more official job was when I was a server at Olive Garden for a summer. I was the best server you ever had if I only had one or two tables, and then I was a disaster if I had more than two tables. My go-to [order] was the lunch portion chicken alfredo, but I would add spinach to it, and then I would have a raspberry lemonade, breadsticks, and salad. And then if I'm doing dessert, I'm doing the white chocolate raspberry cheesecake. When I was first living in New York and I was going to grad school [to get my master's in creative writing], I was temping on the side. My grad program was only at night, so I worked during the day. Every week, I would be doing something different. Usually I'd just be in some sort of office, and I would be answering the phones or putting in the lunch orders and stuff. And I was always scared to say if I was proficient at Excel. You made more money if you said that you were, but I was afraid I was going to get asked to make crazy spreadsheets, so then I would never put that [on my resume]. But then I only made $10 an hour. I should have just done that. But I abide by the rules. I was temping probably for a few months, and then I got a job working part-time at a children's bookstore in the city. It's different when I'm writing a novel versus a script. I don't write in order when I'm writing a novel. I just write whatever I feel compelled to write that day, whatever I'm excited to write about. I call it 'dessert first.' To me, it feels good because then I can gather a bunch of scenes together and figure out the connective tissue and what's missing and what I need to build on. It feels a lot better when you see you have 40,000 words already. It's less daunting. Filmmaking is really collaborative, and you get to work with so many different people, and you really get the benefit of their expertise, creativity, and their wide amount of knowledge. For instance, a production designer [might say], 'This color on the walls is going to be better for us because of the light here or there.' When you're writing a novel, it is a solitary process. It's just you and the page. So you decide everything, and you are the director, the producer, the production designer, the costume designer. You're the person who creates the whole world on your own, so that's very different. I feel proud when I feel like I understand what my audience wants and I'm able to give it to them. To me, telling stories, making TV, and writing books is really all about connection. I feel really lucky to feel like I am connected to the audience. I first heard about this in an interview with Nancy Pelosi. They were asking her about being the most hated woman in America. She said, 'You're in the arena; you've got to take a punch getting in that arena.' And if you're not taking hits, then you're just a 'spectator.' That's really smart for risk-taking or being in the spotlight. It is really fun to be able to expand out and to tell stories in more mediums. Because the books will always be there for [the fans]. People were dressing up as Lara Jean [from To All the Boys I Loved Before] before the movies. They had their own ideas about who she was and what she would wear, and they would come to my book signings dressed up as her. And people felt connected to Belly's story when it was just on the page, and now it's definitely reached a far bigger audience. I would say The Summer I Turned Pretty has always been my most popular story globally, because I think people can put themselves in Belly's shoes, and you really could be sitting on a Swedish beach, a beach in the Philippines, or really anywhere and imagine that you're her. It feels very universal. I've always approached telling stories about young people as not really different from telling stories about adults. I think it's being respectful of that experience and taking it seriously. To me, the most important thing is to really honor that and see that a young person's experience is valid and their point of view is valid. They haven't lived as long yet, and they have a more limited experience because they're younger, but that doesn't make it any less important or real. If you have a big fight with your best friend and you're in high school, it can be very earth-shattering. It can really destabilize your whole existence. I don't feel that's any less real or important than something happening to an adult. Those feelings are the same, and sometimes they're even deeper because you're experiencing it for the first time, and you don't know yet that it will get better and you just have to keep going. You haven't been able to experience that yet. Sometimes you just need time to heal, and so it can feel really intense and sharp. The first time is always going to be a shock to the system in some ways. Gavin [Casalegno] is filming a movie right now in Thailand with Lana [Condor], and they FaceTimed me this morning. It's been very cool to see the two of them working together. And then Lola [Tung] actually was on Broadway in Hadestown with Jordan Fisher, who was also in the To All the Boys universe. We all know each other very well. When you're working on set, you're together for sometimes 12 hours a day. We were in Wilmington, which is a small beach town in North Carolina. I would stay there the whole time because I was just really focused on the work. Everyone was doing that; people weren't leaving a ton. You really bond working on something together. It really does have that theater-troupe feeling. I think it's also that feeling of, we are experiencing this thing together, and we're really in it together. That's unique. I'm protective over the cast, and I just like to remind people that everyone sees what you're saying online, and there are real people who are playing these characters. I don't think it's easy to be in the public eye and have people dissecting everything about you. I don't think that's healthy for anybody. I think the Summer I Turned Pretty cast aren't super online. I want to do what I can to protect them, but also I really love the audience as well. It's always really fun to see people celebrating and having their watch parties. People are so smart and funny and create really fun videos around the show that I enjoy watching. That can be just rewarding too, to see people do their own thing with it. If I was going to say there's a message, it's just to know that everyone is human, people make mistakes, but you're still somebody who's worthy of love. I'm working on a couple of movies. I'm developing a series, but nothing I could speak to at the moment. It's too soon. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
The Province
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Province
XO, Kitty star Anna Cathcart stars in new Audible series Middlebridge Mysteries
UBC student and XO, Kitty actor spins off popular Mistletoe Murders character into new Audible series Anna Cathcart, the star of the Netflix series XO, Kitty, is the star of the new Mistletoe Murders spin-off Audible series Middlebridge Mysteries which drops July 24. Photo by Courtesy of Anna Cathcart / Courtesy of Anna Cathcart Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. XO, Kitty star Vancouver's Anna Cathcart adds another Audible series to her resume. The UBC student stars in the Middlebridge Mysteries a new cosy crime audible series. A spinoff from Audible's Mistletoe Murders, which was made into a Hallmark series, Middlebridge Mysteries also stars Vancouver actor Eric McCormack, he of Will & Grace fame. The series will be released on July 24. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors The new series sees Cathcart (To All the Boys I've Loved Before) reprising her Mistletoe Murders role of Violet Wilner. In the new series Violet is at college studying criminology at her dream school, Middlebridge University. Between juggling coursework, roommate chaos, a slow-burn romance, a social life and her own insecurities, Violet has her hands full. But as anyone who has a spent any time with the folks of Fletcher's Grove knows Violet is never too busy for a good old-fashioned mystery. The series comes from Canadian Screen Award winner Ken Cuperus and features McCormack as the renowned and demanding criminology teacher professor Bellows. Also in the cast are Charles Van der Vaart (Outlander) and Mason Temple (Ginny & Georgia). Read More Vancouver Canucks Local News Local News GlobeNewswire Tennis
Vancouver Sun
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Vancouver Sun
XO, Kitty star Anna Cathcart stars in new Audible series Middlebridge Mysteries
XO, Kitty star Vancouver's Anna Cathcart adds another Audible series to her resume. The UBC student stars in the Middlebridge Mysteries a new cosy crime audible series. A spinoff from Audible's Mistletoe Murders , which was made into a Hallmark series, Middlebridge Mysteries also stars Vancouver actor Eric McCormack , he of Will & Grace fame. The series will be released on July 24. The new series sees Cathcart (To All the Boys I've Loved Before) reprising her Mistletoe Murders role of Violet Wilner. Get top headlines and gossip from the world of celebrity and entertainment. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sun Spots will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. In the new series Violet is at college studying criminology at her dream school, Middlebridge University. Between juggling coursework, roommate chaos, a slow-burn romance, a social life and her own insecurities, Violet has her hands full. But as anyone who has a spent any time with the folks of Fletcher's Grove knows Violet is never too busy for a good old-fashioned mystery. The series comes from Canadian Screen Award winner Ken Cuperus and features McCormack as the renowned and demanding criminology teacher professor Bellows. Also in the cast are Charles Van der Vaart (Outlander) and Mason Temple (Ginny & Georgia).
Hindustan Times
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Love The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3? Seven shows to watch while waiting for new episodes
The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 is finally here, and it has already got fans glued to their screens. Belly's love triangle drama (between Conrad and Jeremiah) just keeps heating up, and every new episode makes the wait feel way too long. The third episode will drop on Prime Video on July 23, but for now, if you are lost on what to watch in the meantime, here are some shows that give off similar feelings, romance, messy friendships, growing pains, and more, as per TV Guide. The Summer I Turned Pretty features a love triangle between Belly, Conrad and Jeremiah. Also read: The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3: Release date, time, where to watch and more Shows like The Summer I Turned Pretty XO, Kitty If you have watched To All the Boys I've Loved Before, check out XO, Kitty. It follows Kitty Covey as she moves to South Korea to reconnect with her long-distance boyfriend. But nothing goes as she expects. The show is cute, funny and chaotic. There is a lot of teen drama and emotional ups and downs that will totally remind you of Belly's journey. The Korean backdrop is super aesthetic, and the characters are fun to watch. Plus, Kitty's confidence (even when things go wrong) is really refreshing. One Tree Hill This one is sort of old-school, but still a favorite for drama fans. One Tree Hill is about basketball, brothers, high school love... and a ton of drama. The characters really grow on viewers. It has got that emotional weight like The Summer I Turned Pretty, and the love stories are pretty intense. And the music is good too. If you are looking for something to binge with strong feelings and relatable struggles, this one delivers. Never Have I Ever Devi is a whole chaotic mess, in the best way. Never Have I Ever's lead character is unfiltered and super different from Belly. She deals with grief, boy drama, identity stuff, and tons of hilariously awkward moments, all while managing her Indian roots in America. It has got a real heart beneath all the jokes. The show also has a love triangle. If you want something that makes you laugh but also sometimes low-key cry, this is it. Plus, each episode is short, so you can binge-watch it over the weekend. My Life With the Walter Boys After a tragedy, Jackie moves to a small town and ends up living with a big, chaotic family, including a few boys who obviously bring on the drama. Think The Summer I Turned Pretty vibes but set in the countryside. The setting's different, but the emotional tone hits close. Viewers will probably get attached to Jackie quickly, and the sibling dynamics are pretty funny too. Dawson's Creek Dawson's Creek is super dramatic and full of those 'big' teen emotions. The whole small-town beach vibe feels very The Summer I Turned Pretty. Joey, Dawson, and Pacey have a love triangle of their own that fans still argue about today. Some episodes are slower, but if you like deep conversations, emotional tension, and nostalgic vibes, give it a go. It is the blueprint for every modern teen drama. Also read: Are you team Conrad or team Jeremiah? The Summer I Turned Pretty's Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno make their case! Motorheads If you are into something more fast-paced, Motorheads might surprise you. It is about a group of teens obsessed with cars and racing, but it is not just about the engines. There is romance, friendship, drama, and some really solid character growth. The show might not seem like it fits the TSITP vibe at first, but the characters totally pull you in. And if you like underdog stories, you will probably love this. Gilmore Girls This one is a cult classic! Gilmore Girls is less about dramatic love triangles and more about family, friendship, and finding your way. Lorelai and Rory's dynamic is so sweet, and her high school/college journey has its share of boy drama, too. If you want something chill to balance out the TSITP tension, this is like the perfect comfort watch. FAQs: 1. When does Episode 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 come out? Episode 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 will be released on July 23. 2. How many episodes does The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 have? The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 will have 11 episodes. 3. When will The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 4 release? The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is the final season; there will be no season 4.
Business Upturn
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Upturn
When is XO, Kitty season 3 releasing? Everything we know so far
By Aman Shukla Published on July 18, 2025, 18:00 IST Last updated July 18, 2025, 10:49 IST Okay, XO, Kitty fans, let's talk about Season 3! After that wild Season 2 finale left us all screaming at our screens, we're dying to know when Kitty Song Covey's next adventure hits Netflix. Will she finally sort out her messy love life? What's next for her at KISS? Here's the lowdown on everything we know about XO, Kitty Season 3—release date, cast, plot, and all the juicy details. When Can We Expect XO, Kitty Season 3? No exact date yet, but the word on the street is early 2026—think March or maybe April. Unlike the long wait between Seasons 1 and 2 (ugh, those 2023 strikes!), Season 3's turnaround is faster. They started shooting in April 2025 and finished by July, so they're probably editing like crazy right now. My bet? We'll get a springtime drop, perfect for a sunny vibe to match the rumored summer episode Who's in the Cast of XO, Kitty Season 3? The core cast is expected to return, bringing back the beloved characters from KISS. Confirmed returning actors include: Anna Cathcart as Kitty Song Covey, the lovable matchmaker navigating her heart and family ties. Sang Heon Lee as Min Ho, Kitty's potential love interest after their Season 2 cliffhanger. Minyeong Choi as Dae, Kitty's ex-boyfriend and close friend. Gia Kim as Yuri, whose romantic arc with Kitty may be paused but remains a fan favorite. Anthony Keyvan as Q, Kitty's supportive best friend. Regan Aliyah as Juliana, Yuri's ex-girlfriend. Peter Thurnwald as Alex, Kitty's mentor and friend. Sasha Bhasin as Praveena, a newer friend in Kitty's circle. Joshua Lee as Jin, a recurring character now a series regular. Han Bi Ryu as Eunice, Sunny Oh as Mihee, and Michael K. Lee as Professor Lee. New faces are joining the show, with Sule Thelwell as Marius (a series regular), and Soy Kim as Yisoo and Christine Hwang as Gigi in recurring roles. However, Audrey Huynh (Stella/Esther) is unlikely to return after her character's Season 2 exit to the US. Similarly, Peniel Shin (Joon Ho, Min Ho's brother) and Philippe Lee (Mr. Moon) may not appear, as they weren't listed in official cast updates. Fans are also hoping for another cameo from To All the Boys star Noah Centineo as Peter Kavinsky, though his Season 2 appearance was a one-off due to filming The Recruit in South Korea. A return from Lana Condor as Lara Jean is a long shot but remains a dream for fans. What Will XO, Kitty Season 3 Be About? Season 2 ended with a major moment: Kitty realizing she's got it bad for Min Ho, only to find out he's sworn off dating after the Stella drama. Instead of spilling her feelings, she impulsively joins him on his brother's summer tour. So, expect a big summer adventure before Kitty's senior year at KISS! Jessica O'Toole teased a special summer episode, which sounds like a fun change from the usual school vibe. Romance is defo front and center. Kitty and Min Ho's 'MoonCovey' slow-burn is giving everyone life, and with 'lots of kissing' promised, we're hoping they finally get together. That said, Kitty's past with Yuri might still stir things up, even though Anna Cathcart said their story feels 'closed for now' in a Tudum interview. Outside of love stuff, Kitty's digging deeper into her family roots. After reconnecting her grandma and great-aunt last season, she's got a cousin and more family in Korea to explore. Plus, Yuri's dealing with some family drama over a lawsuit, so expect some non-romantic tension too. Ahmedabad Plane Crash Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at
