When After Everything premiered in 2023 as the fifth installment of the After franchise, fans quickly noticed something surprising: Tessa Young, the central heroine of the series played by Josephine Langford, appeared far less than in previous films. Considering the saga’s global popularity and Tessa’s significance as the emotional anchor of the story, viewers were left asking the same question—what happened?
Tessa’s Reduced Screen Time
Unlike earlier films that focused heavily on the fiery, tumultuous relationship between Tessa and Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), After Everything shifted its lens toward Hardin’s personal redemption. The story picks up after the events of After Ever Happy, with Hardin grappling with heartbreak, self-doubt, and the aftermath of his mistakes. This narrative choice led to a significant decrease in Tessa’s role, leaving her mostly absent for large portions of the movie.
For many fans, this felt unusual, given that the series had always thrived on the push and pull between Tessa and Hardin. Social media was abuzz after the film’s release, with viewers expressing both disappointment and curiosity about Josephine Langford’s limited presence.
Behind-the-Scenes Factors
While the production team never issued a detailed public statement about the decision, several factors contributed to the change. Industry insiders pointed to scheduling conflicts as a possible reason for Langford’s reduced involvement. At the time, the Australian actress was exploring new opportunities beyond the franchise that catapulted her to fame, and her availability may have been limited during filming.
Another key reason was creative direction. Director Castille Landon revealed in interviews that After Everything was designed as Hardin’s journey of growth and accountability. Rather than relying solely on the romance at the center of the saga, the filmmakers wanted to explore Hardin as an individual—his career ambitions, his struggle with past trauma, and his attempt to make peace with his mistakes. By doing so, the narrative allowed Hero Fiennes Tiffin to carry the story in a more introspective and personal way.
Fan Reactions
Reactions from the After fanbase were mixed. Loyal viewers who had followed Tessa and Hardin’s love story from the beginning expressed frustration at not seeing more of Josephine Langford, especially since Tessa’s perspective had been so central in Anna Todd’s original novels. Others, however, appreciated the chance to see Hardin’s character explored more deeply, acknowledging that the franchise had reached a natural point for his personal arc to take center stage.
Josephine Langford’s Future
Despite the reduced role in After Everything, Josephine Langford remains beloved by fans worldwide. The actress has since pursued a variety of projects, showcasing her versatility beyond the romantic-drama genre. While it’s uncertain whether the After franchise will continue with spin-offs or prequels, Langford’s name continues to be closely associated with the character of Tessa Young.
Ultimately, Tessa’s smaller role in After Everything reflected both logistical realities and a deliberate creative choice. Though her screen time was limited, her presence remained vital to the story’s emotional resolution—reminding fans that at the heart of Hardin’s growth, Tessa will always be the guiding force.
