The television adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s acclaimed sports romance series, “Off-Campus,” is now available for streaming on Prime Video. The show, which debuted on May 13, marks a significant milestone in Kennedy’s writing career and brings her beloved characters to life on screen.
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In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Kennedy shared insights into her writing journey and the literary influences that have shaped her work. Although she is widely known for her new adult romance novels centred on college life and sports, Kennedy revealed that she has a deep-seated passion for writing thrillers. Her latest project, a young adult thriller, reflects a different narrative direction, allowing her to explore themes that diverge from the steamy plots of her more mature works.
Kennedy explained the appeal of shifting her focus to young adult literature, stating, “With YA, it’s a nice break sometimes when you don’t want to write extra sexy things.” She expressed her surprise at being allowed to include darker elements in her new work, noting that despite being aimed at a younger audience, YA books can still tackle complex themes. “Thrillers are my first love, always,” she added, underscoring her commitment to the genre.
Reflecting on her own reading experiences, Kennedy cited V.C. Andrews’ classic “Flowers in the Attic” as a pivotal influence during her childhood. The gothic novel, published in 1979, left a lasting impression on her, much like the works of Stephen King, whose dark writings she still cherishes. “I still have that whole series on my bookshelf,” she said, indicating the extent of her dedication to these authors. “They’re messed up, but I love them,” she remarked, highlighting the complexity that such stories can evoke.
However, Kennedy’s current works delve into romance, specifically through the lens of collegiate life. The “Off-Campus” series depicts the intertwined lives of several hockey players at Briar University, with the first season of the show primarily based on “The Deal,” published in 2015. This story, which unfolds the romance between athlete Garrett, portrayed by Melmont Cameli, and music student Hannah, played by Ella Bright, has captivated readers with its heartfelt themes and relatable characters.
The journey from page to screen was not without its challenges. The production faced significant setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a nationwide writers’ strike, but ultimately, Kennedy’s vision for the adaptation became a reality. She described the experience of seeing her story come to life as both thrilling and rewarding. “It was fun to see it go from just a producer who’s like, I love the book series, and I think we should make something, to now actually see it made,” she noted.
When discussing the series’ fidelity to the source material, Kennedy expressed satisfaction with how the adaptation has captured the essence of Briar University. She believes the show successfully conveys the dynamics between characters and maintains the slow-burning romance that fans of the books have come to adore. “They didn’t try to just rush it,” she reflected, emphasising the importance of character development and emotional depth.
As “Off-Campus” continues to draw in viewers, Kennedy remains an influential figure in the realm of contemporary literature. Her ability to traverse genres and connect with readers of all ages underscores her versatility as a writer. As fans eagerly devour both the series and her novels, Kennedy’s creative journey is set to inspire even more stories in the future.
The “Off-Campus” series is now streaming on Prime Video, and the accompanying novels are available for purchase, ensuring that both avid readers and new audiences can engage with Kennedy’s work and the unique world she has created.