Showrunner Louisa Levy on Adapting 'Off Campus' for Prime Video

Louisa Levy, the creator and co-showrunner of Prime Video’s hit series 'Off Campus,' recently discussed the creative journey of bringing Elle Kennedy’s popular 'new adult' romance novels to the screen. Levy was initially drawn to the source material for its unique balance of lighthearted romance and complex, mature themes. By focusing on the nuanced experiences of characters navigating early adulthood—including sensitive topics like sexual assault and domestic abuse—Levy aimed to elevate the genre while maintaining the fun, engaging tone that fans of the books expect.

The production faced significant hurdles, most notably the industry-wide writers strike, which forced a pause in development shortly after Levy secured the deal with Amazon and Temple Hill. Despite the delay, Levy noted that her enthusiasm for the project remained undiminished, allowing the team to hit the ground running once production resumed. The show's success has been bolstered by a strong connection with its audience, particularly through its curated soundtrack, which highlights both established stars and emerging artists, further cementing the show's cultural footprint.

As the team moves into production for the second season—which was greenlit ahead of the series premiere—the focus remains on maintaining the momentum established in the first season. Levy’s experience serves as a case study in successful book-to-screen adaptation, demonstrating how a clear vision for character depth can translate into a streaming hit. The early renewal of the series underscores Prime Video's confidence in the 'new adult' demographic and Levy's ability to translate literary popularity into sustained viewership.