The story that began as Wattpad fan fiction and exploded into a global movie franchise isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s evolving. Following the passionate, tumultuous love story of Tessa Young and Hardin Scott, the After series is now expanding into a larger cinematic universe with two bold new projects: a Hardin-focused prequel and a next-generation sequel. Both were officially announced in a major exclusive, and fans are buzzing with excitement—and curiosity—about where the After universe will go next.
One of the most anticipated additions is the untitled Hardin prequel, loosely based on Anna Todd’s novella Before, which gives readers a glimpse into Hardin’s troubled life before he met Tessa. This prequel won’t be a simple retelling of what fans already know. Instead, it’s a dive into the pain, relationships, and personal demons that shaped the emotionally guarded, often volatile character we met in the original After film. From his complicated relationship with his father to his early experiences with love and betrayal, the prequel promises to flesh out the psychological roots of Hardin’s personality.
This sequel won’t be a traditional love story. It will examine generational trauma, emotional inheritance, and the struggle to find one’s identity when parents cast long shadows. It promises to be more mature in tone, tackling real-life issues through the lens of a romantic drama. The After franchise has never shied away from controversy. Its portrayal of young, messy love has sparked countless debates—some praising its authenticity, others criticizing its depiction of toxic dynamics. But what’s undeniable is the impact it has had on its audience.
With these new projects, the creative team appears intent on maturing the narrative. The prequel humanizes Hardin in a way that may offer new context for his behavior, without excusing it. Meanwhile, the next-gen sequel acknowledges the ripple effects of emotional trauma, suggesting that even when love survives, scars remain. By choosing to revisit the past and explore the future, the After universe is evolving from a steamy romance saga into something richer—an exploration of love, loss, healing, and how the past shapes the present.
Casting details for both projects remain under wraps, though it’s been confirmed that new actors will be stepping into the roles of young Hardin and the couple’s children. While some fans might be disappointed that Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin won’t be headlining these films, their legacy will be woven into the very fabric of the stories.
Production is expected to begin in late 2025, with Landon once again directing both films. Given her track record of helming After We Fell and After Ever Happy, her return brings a sense of consistency and emotional depth that fans have come to expect. “We’re not just throwing stories together to keep the franchise alive,” Landon said in an interview. “There’s real intention here. We want to tell stories that matter—and to do it in a way that respects what came before while offering something new.”
As expected, fans have taken to social media with a wide range of reactions. Some are ecstatic about the idea of expanding the After universe, eager to see more character development and deeper storytelling. Others are skeptical, worried that new faces might dilute the connection they feel with Tessa and Hardin. Still, there’s a growing sense of intrigue. The idea of exploring Hardin’s youth through a gritty lens, and of seeing how their love story echoes through the lives of their children, offers fresh narrative potential that could reinvigorate the franchise. “This isn’t about replacing Tessa and Hardin,” one fan tweeted. “It’s about understanding them better and seeing how their story impacts others. I’m here for it.”
