When After We Collided, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 hit After, was first announced, fans around the globe eagerly marked their calendars. The second installment promised more intense romance, deeper drama, and a closer look at the tumultuous relationship between Hardin Scott and Tessa Young. But like so many films during 2020, the journey from post-production to premiere was anything but smooth. Now, the film’s producer has officially confirmed what many had feared: the release of After We Collided was significantly delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread theater closures.
The announcement came during an online fan Q&A session when the film’s producer addressed questions surrounding the shifting release schedule. “We were ready,” the producer shared. “The film was finished and we were excited to bring it to audiences. But as the pandemic worsened and theaters began shutting their doors, we had to make the difficult decision to hold off on the release.”
Eventually, the studio opted for a staggered release strategy. After We Collided would debut in international markets first, where theaters had reopened under strict safety guidelines. Countries like Italy, Spain, and Germany got early access to the film in late summer 2020, while U.S. fans had to wait until October, when the film was released digitally and in select drive-in theaters. Despite the unconventional rollout, the film performed remarkably well — especially given the challenging circumstances. Fans flocked to social media to share their excitement, post reactions, and celebrate the return of the After universe. The hashtag #AfterWeCollided trended globally during its release week, and the movie quickly shot to the top of digital streaming charts in multiple countries.
The delay, it turns out, may have worked in the film’s favor. With so many people confined to their homes, streaming became the primary form of entertainment. When After We Collided dropped digitally, it reached an even wider audience than initially expected. “We were amazed at the numbers,” the producer said. “It really proved that the fanbase is not only loyal but growing.”
Beyond the logistical challenges, the pandemic also impacted the emotional and mental health of the cast and crew. Like many around the world, they had to navigate uncertainty, isolation, and the disappointment of postponed events. But throughout it all, the After fandom remained supportive. “The fans were incredible,” Josephine Langford said in a separate interview. “Their patience, their messages — it kept us all going.”
And for many fans, it absolutely was. After We Collided pushed the envelope with a more mature tone, exploring themes of trauma, redemption, and the messy realities of love. The chemistry between Hero and Josephine was stronger than ever, and new cast additions — including Dylan Sprouse as Trevor — brought fresh dynamics to the story. The emotional weight of the characters’ journeys resonated all the more deeply in a world already coping with loss, confusion, and change. Looking back, the delayed release of After We Collided serves as a time capsule of a strange, unprecedented moment in history. It’s a reminder that even the most anticipated plans can shift in an instant — but with creativity, resilience, and a supportive community, it’s possible to adapt.
Now, as fans look ahead to future installments like After We Fell and After Ever Happy, the legacy of After We Collided remains powerful. It’s not just a sequel; it’s a symbol of what it means to persevere — in love, in storytelling, and in uncertain times.
