Gavin Casalegno is speaking out about the criticism he’s faced thanks to his The Summer I Turned Pretty character, Jeremiah Fisher.
The 25-year-old actor has quickly become a fan favorite on Prime Video’s hit series, but not everyone is thrilled with Jeremiah’s storyline. His character’s choices have divided the fandom—and Gavin admits that some of that negativity has spilled over onto him personally.
“They tend to dislike him, yes,” he told The New York Times. “I don’t check Instagram anymore, so I haven’t really seen that much hate. The only thing that I see is my sister sending me the memes that are really funny.”
While he can laugh at some of the online reactions, Gavin also emphasized the importance of separating himself from his character. “I think it’s important to also understand and realize that this is a fictional story—and it’s also not me,” he explained. “I don’t think there’s a single human being in the world who can carry the emotional negativity to the degree that stuff like this happens.”
The actor went on to credit Amazon for trying to step in when fan behavior crossed the line. “And I think that’s why Amazon did a good job of stepping in and being like, ‘Hey, no bullying.’ Though, not really going so well,” he added.
Ahead of the most recent season’s debut earlier this summer, the show’s official Instagram even posted reminders for fans not to harass the cast. Despite those efforts, online debates over Jeremiah’s decisions have only intensified.
Still, Gavin seems unfazed. He’s focused on the bigger picture: being part of a story that resonates with so many viewers. “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has built a passionate fanbase, and while heated debates are part of that, so is deep love for the show’s characters and themes.
With the third and final season still airing, fans are holding their breath to see how Jeremiah’s story ends. And whether they love him or hate him, one thing is certain—Gavin’s portrayal has left a strong impression.
