Was the “Off Campus” Cast Aware of What ‘Smut’ Is Before Making the Sexy Series? (Exclusive)

The adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s popular 2015 novel, *The Deal*, has made waves with its new series *Off Campus*, now streaming on Prime Video. The show centres on the tumultuous yet invigorating romance between Hannah, portrayed by Ella Bright, and Garrett, played by Belmont Cameli. Their relationship begins as a mutually beneficial arrangement that soon spirals into something more complex.

The heart of the series is reinforced by the strong performances of its supporting cast, including Antonio Cipriano, Stephen Kalyn, and Jalen Thomas Brooks. These actors portray Garrett’s close friends and housemates: Logan, Dean, and Tucker, respectively. Each character is expected to feature prominently in the subsequent installments of Kennedy’s series, creating added anticipation among fans.

In a recent interview with *People*, Cipriano, 26, admitted that before landing his role as Logan, he was largely unaware of the series’ expansive fanbase and the buzz surrounding BookTok, a social media subculture dedicated to literature. “I didn’t know the magnitude of the fan base yet or BookTok or anything. I didn’t even know what BookTok was,” he confessed.

Kalyn, 28, had a slightly different experience when he took on the role of Dean. He acknowledged that he was somewhat familiar with the genre, stating, “Smut’s pretty popular. Who knew?” The term “smut” refers to romance novels containing explicit content, a topic that has captivated a significant audience, particularly among younger readers.

Brooks, 24, also shared that he entered the project without any prior knowledge of either BookTok or the concept of smut. “I didn’t even know what smut was,” he remarked. However, Kalyn benefited from conversations with his fiancé, Victoria Lovatsis, who had informed him about the genre and its growing popularity.

As the cast began filming *Off Campus*, they quickly realised the weight of their responsibility to the fanbase. Cipriano mentioned that they were well aware of the expectations attached to the project. “We were very aware of how important [this story] was to a lot of people, and we have a responsibility,” he emphasised. This understanding motivated the cast to deliver performances that honour the source material and resonate with fans.

The lead actors, Bright and Cameli, also faced the challenge of depicting intimate scenes. Bright provided insight into the process, explaining that the character-driven nature of the narrative underpins these moments. “What always stood out to me was just how character-driven and meaningful these sex scenes [are],” she noted. She emphasised the importance of the dialogue and choreography involved, ensuring that the environment on set was safe and comfortable for all performers.

Throughout the production, the cast engaged in numerous discussions with intimacy coordinators, which allowed them to approach these scenes thoughtfully. Bright’s comments highlight a commitment to portraying their characters authentically while being considerate of the sensitivities involved in filming intimate content.

As fans eagerly anticipate the show’s reception, the unique blend of character depth and steamy romance promises to entrench *Off Campus* as a significant addition to the growing list of adaptations aimed at capturing the hearts of young adults. Following this first season, viewers can look forward to more stories from the series’ beloved characters, making this an exciting time for followers of Kennedy’s work.

With a talented ensemble and a dedicated approach to storytelling, *Off Campus* aspires to not merely entertain but to celebrate the complexities of relationships and the connections that form during pivotal moments in life. The cast’s journey—from relative newcomers to participants in an acclaimed adaptation—reflects an engaging narrative on its own, making it a compelling watch for both fans and new viewers alike.