After captivating audiences as the strong-willed yet emotionally vulnerable Tessa Young in the wildly popular After series, Josephine Langford is stepping into a new spotlight—one that could redefine her career and showcase her impressive range as an actress. With the After franchise wrapped and streaming on platforms like Netflix, Langford is now turning the page with her first post-After film project: a dramatic, character-driven role that promises to elevate her from fan-favorite to full-fledged leading lady in Hollywood.
For many viewers, Josephine Langford is synonymous with the romantic whirlwind that was Tessa and Hardin. Across five films based on Anna Todd’s bestselling books, Langford portrayed the emotional evolution of a young woman entangled in a complicated, often toxic relationship. Her nuanced performance made her a breakout star, adored by fans and increasingly recognized by critics. But now, with After Everything serving as the final chapter of that saga, Langford is ready to show the world there’s more to her than Tessa Young.
The shift from After to The Other Side of Us is both strategic and artistic. Langford has been vocal about wanting to challenge herself with roles that require emotional depth and complexity. In a recent interview, she admitted, “I’m incredibly grateful for everything the After series gave me—especially the fans. But now I want to tell stories that scare me a little, roles that force me to grow.” It’s a smart move. Many actors who break out in YA franchises struggle to find footing outside the bubble of fan obsession. Langford, however, seems determined to break the mold. She’s not chasing box office numbers or sticking to the comfort zone of romantic dramas. Instead, she’s embracing indie cinema, difficult scripts, and characters who aren’t always likable—but are always real.
The Other Side of Us is already generating quiet buzz on the indie circuit. Early screeners have drawn praise for its muted, atmospheric tone and Langford’s restrained but powerful performance. One reviewer noted, “This is a career-defining turn for Langford. She disappears into the role.” Langford’s decision to choose a smaller, character-driven film rather than a mainstream blockbuster says a lot about her priorities as an artist. Much like Kristen Stewart after Twilight or Daniel Radcliffe after Harry Potter, Langford appears to be seeking a creative rebirth—one that prioritizes craft over commercialism.
On set, Langford was described as deeply collaborative and unusually focused. She worked closely with the film’s screenwriter to understand Emily’s backstory and reportedly kept a personal journal in character during production. “She wanted to understand Emily from the inside out,” said Scott. “That level of dedication is rare.” The film’s cinematographer, Eva Morales, also praised Langford’s presence on set. “Josephine has this quiet strength. She’s not loud or showy, but the camera loves her because she’s always present. Every take felt like something you couldn’t look away from.”
With The Other Side of Us, Langford is poised to begin a new chapter—one that moves her from YA star to serious dramatic actress. She’s already lining up additional roles, including a historical drama set during World War II and a limited series exploring the life of a real-life whistleblower. The variety and ambition of her upcoming projects suggest that Langford isn’t interested in being boxed into one genre or audience. Critics are beginning to take note. While Langford may have once been seen as the quieter of the Langford sisters (her older sibling is 13 Reasons Why star Katherine Langford), she’s now carving out her own identity in the industry—on her own terms. And fans? They’re fully on board. Social media has exploded with support for Langford’s latest project, with many praising her decision to pursue more serious work. “She’s growing up with us,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “I love Tessa, but I’m excited to see what Josephine does next.”
Leaving behind a beloved franchise is always a risky move, especially when that franchise has defined your career for half a decade. But Josephine Langford’s first post-After role proves she’s not just ready for the next step—she’s already taking it with confidence and grace. The Other Side of Us gives her the platform to explore new emotional depths, test her range, and redefine her artistic voice.
