Belmont Cameli explains why 'Off Campus' became a global phenomenon

Cameli believes viewers have connected with 'Off Campus' because it offers something rare in television, earnestness

Off Campus star Belmont Cameli believes the runaway success of the Prime Video romance series comes down to one thing: audiences are craving love stories again.

Speaking to GQ, the actor behind hockey captain Garrett Graham reflected on the show's meteoric rise and said romance is experiencing a major resurgence. “I feel like it's having a real resurgence right now,” Cameli said, adding that working on the series has turned him into “a fan of romance.”

The 28-year-old actor believes viewers have connected with Off Campus because it offers something increasingly rare in modern television, earnestness. Rather than relying on cynicism, the adaptation of Elle Kennedy's bestselling novels embraces emotion, intimacy and characters who wear their hearts on their sleeves.

Cameli also credited the chemistry between the cast and the sense of escapism the series provides. Since premiering, Off Campus has become one of Prime Video's biggest hits, spawning a devoted fanbase and earning an early season two renewal.

Part of what initially drew Cameli to the role of Garrett was the opportunity to portray a different kind of leading man. He told GQ that he was interested in showing masculinity in a more emotionally open way, which he feels resonates with audiences looking for stories that are both romantic and authentic.

The actor admitted he had little experience with hockey before landing the role, but quickly embraced the world of the series. He also said the show's popularity has changed the way he views the romance genre, which he previously had not explored as deeply.

Cameli noted that the overwhelming response from fans has been both surprising and rewarding. As clips from the series continue to dominate social media, he believes viewers have embraced Off Campus because of its sincerity and its willingness to let characters pursue love without irony.

With season two already on the horizon, Cameli said he is excited to see where the story goes next. If the first season proved anything, he added, it is that audiences are more than ready for romance to take centre stage once again.