The wait is nearly over for the millions of readers who turned Elle Kennedy’s Briar University into a global literary phenomenon. The Off Campus Prime Video adaptation is officially stepping onto the ice, bringing the high-stakes world of college hockey, complicated romances, and the beloved "fake dating" trope to life. As Amazon MGM Studios prepares to launch what is already being hailed as the next major obsession for fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty and Maxton Hall, the buzz surrounding the series has reached a fever pitch on BookTok and beyond.
This isn't just another campus drama; it is a meticulously crafted adaptation of The Deal, a novel that boasts over 1 million ratings on Goodreads. With a cast of rising stars and a production team known for turning YA novels into cinematic gold, the Briar University hockey series is poised to be the streaming event of the year. Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming premiere, the cast transitions, and what to expect from the steamy world of Briar U.
Off Campus Release Date and How to Watch
What is the Off Campus series release date? The Off Campus series premieres on Prime Video on May 13, 2026. All eight episodes of the first season, which adapts Elle Kennedy's bestselling novel 'The Deal', will be available to stream simultaneously in over 240 countries.
Unlike traditional weekly releases, Amazon MGM Studios has opted for a "binge-drop" strategy, allowing fans to devour the entire story of Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham in one sitting. Each of the eight episodes is expected to have a runtime of approximately 45 to 50 minutes, providing ample space to explore the nuanced character development and "spicy" romantic beats that made the source material a bestseller.
The Official Trailer: A First Look at Briar University
The recently released trailer for the Off Campus Prime Video series has already racked up millions of views, confirming that the show will lean heavily into the fake dating trope that defined the first book. The visual style suggests a blend of the sun-drenched nostalgia of The Summer I Turned Pretty with the more mature, atmospheric tension found in Maxton Hall.
The trailer highlights the central pact: Hannah Wells, a talented but shy songwriter, needs to make her crush, a rocker named Justin, jealous. Meanwhile, Garrett Graham, the "Big Man on Campus" and star hockey captain, needs a tutor to save his GPA and his professional hockey prospects. The chemistry between leads Belmont Cameli and Ella Bright is palpable, particularly in the viral "shower scene" teaser that sent social media into a frenzy. Fans of the "Heated Rivalry" series by Rachel Reid will find much to love here, as the show captures the intense athleticism and locker-room camaraderie of elite college hockey.
Off Campus Series Cast: Meet the Stars of Briar U
The Off Campus series cast features a mix of established young talent and fresh faces, chosen to embody the "found family" dynamic of the hockey team. The casting process was overseen by showrunner Louisa Levy, who previously worked on The Flight Attendant, ensuring the performances balance humor with emotional depth.
- Belmont Cameli as Garrett Graham: Known for his role in the Saved by the Bell reboot, Cameli brings the necessary physical presence and "golden boy" charm to Garrett. Fans have noted his striking resemblance to the character descriptions in the books, particularly his ability to portray Garrett’s hidden vulnerabilities.
- Ella Bright as Hannah Wells: Bright, who appeared in The Crown, takes on the role of the sharp-witted Hannah. Her background in dramatic acting is crucial for navigating Hannah’s complex past and her journey toward self-discovery.
- Josh Heuston as Justin Kohl: In a casting move that thrilled the "Fourth Wing" fandom (where Heuston is a top pick for Xaden Riorson), the Dune: Prophecy actor plays Hannah’s original crush, Justin. His presence adds a layer of genuine tension to the fake-dating dynamic.
- Mika Abdalla as Allie Hayes: As Hannah’s best friend and the future lead of a potential later season, Abdalla’s performance is essential for establishing the female friendships that anchor the series.
- The Hockey Team: The supporting cast includes Antonio Cipriano (John Logan), Stephen Kalyn (Dean Di Laurentis), and Jalen Thomas Brooks (John Tucker). These actors will form the core "bromance" that carries through the anthology-style structure of the series.
From Page to Screen: Adapting 'The Deal'
When discussing the Off Campus series vs book differences, author Elle Kennedy has been vocal about her involvement. While Amazon MGM Studios led the creative changes, Kennedy has assured fans that the "core relationship dynamics" remain intact. One of the biggest questions from the BookTok community is whether the show will maintain the steamy drama and explicit nature of the novels. Given Prime Video’s history with mature adaptations like Red, White & Royal Blue, the show is expected to carry a TV-MA or equivalent age rating, leaning into the "spicy" reputation of the books.
However, the adaptation also addresses more serious themes. A critical element of The Deal is Hannah’s history as a survivor of sexual assault. The showrunners have reportedly handled these trigger warnings with extreme care, ensuring Hannah’s trauma is portrayed with sensitivity rather than for shock value. This depth of character is what elevates the story from a standard sports romance to a compelling drama about healing and trust.
The Briar University Setting and Filming Locations
To bring the fictional Briar University to life, the production moved to Vancouver, often called "Hollywood North." The UBC filming locations provide the perfect collegiate backdrop. Sharp-eyed fans will recognize several iconic spots on the University of British Columbia campus:
- The Irving K. Barber Learning Centre: Serving as the main library where Hannah and Garrett’s tutoring sessions take place.
- The Ladner Clock Tower: Featured prominently in establishing shots of the campus.
- The Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre: The home ice for the Briar U hockey team, where the high-octane game sequences were filmed during the summer and fall of 2025.
Off Campus Season 2: 'The Mistake' and Future Plans
In a rare move, Off Campus Prime Video was renewed for a second season before the first episode even aired. This speaks to the immense confidence Amazon has in the franchise. Following the Bridgerton structure, each season will focus on a different couple within the same friend group.
While Season 1 focuses on The Deal, Season 2 is expected to adapt the second book, The Mistake. This story follows John Logan as he tries to win back the girl he let slip away. Recent casting news has confirmed that India Fowler will join the cast as Grace Ivers, the female lead for the second installment. Additionally, Phillipa Soo (of Hamilton fame) has been cast in a recurring role, further elevating the show’s prestige. The Off Campus season 2 release date is tentatively projected for mid-2027, with filming scheduled to begin in Vancouver this summer.
Soundtrack and Cultural Impact
Music plays a vital role in the series, given Hannah Wells’ identity as a songwriter. While a full Off Campus soundtrack list has not been released, the trailer features indie-pop anthems that mirror the "sad girl autumn" and "main character energy" vibes popular on TikTok. There is also growing speculation regarding Briar University merchandise; Amazon is expected to launch an official line of hockey jerseys and collegiate apparel to coincide with the premiere, capitalizing on the "aesthetic" appeal of the series.
"The foundation of the friend group is the heart of the show. Seeing the hockey bromance come to life was just as important as the romance." — Elle Kennedy
Key Takeaways for Fans
- Premiere Date: May 13, 2026, with all 8 episodes available at once.
- Source Material: Season 1 adapts The Deal; Season 2 will likely adapt The Mistake.
- The Trope: A classic "Fake Dating" scenario between a hockey star and a music student.
- The Cast: Belmont Cameli and Ella Bright lead an ensemble of rising stars.
- Location: Filmed on location at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver.
- Future: Already renewed for Season 2 with India Fowler and Phillipa Soo joining the cast.
Conclusion: The Next Big Streaming Obsession
The Off Campus Prime Video series is more than just a hockey romance; it is a story about the complexities of early adulthood, the power of friendship, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. By staying faithful to the emotional core of Elle Kennedy’s books while expanding the world for a global television audience, Amazon MGM Studios has a guaranteed hit on its hands. Whether you are a longtime resident of Briar U or a newcomer looking for your next binge-watch, May 13 promises to be a date to remember. Prepare your jerseys—the puck is about to drop.
