The After series has captivated audiences worldwide with its raw, emotional portrayal of love, and After Everything (2023), the fifth and final chapter, delivers a breathtaking conclusion to the saga of Hardin Scott and Tessa Young. Played with magnetic intensity by Hero Fiennes Tiffin and Josephine Langford, Hardin and Tessa—affectionately dubbed “Hessa” by fans—are undeniably the heart and soul of the film. Their turbulent yet passionate romance, marked by heartbreak, growth, and ultimate redemption, makes them the standout couple in After Everything. From their electric chemistry to their transformative journey, Hessa’s story resonates deeply, earning them a special place in fans’ hearts.
After Everything picks up two years after Hardin and Tessa’s breakup, with Hardin grappling with writer’s block and personal demons in Portugal. Tessa, meanwhile, has moved forward in New York, her absence felt keenly in the early narrative. Yet, as the story unfolds, their paths converge in moments that reignite their undeniable connection. Fans on social media, particularly on platforms like Facebook and TikTok, rave about the couple’s reunion at a wedding, where Hardin’s emotional speech—highlighted in a widely viewed Amazon Prime Video clip—lays bare his vulnerability and love. This scene, brimming with raw emotion, encapsulates why Hessa remains the ultimate couple.
Hardin and Tessa’s journey is defined by its intensity. From their first meeting in After (2019), their relationship has been a rollercoaster of passion, misunderstandings, and growth. Hardin, the brooding bad boy with a troubled past, clashes with Tessa, the driven and compassionate young woman who challenges him to be better. In After Everything, their story takes a reflective turn, with Hardin confronting his mistakes—particularly his betrayal with Natalie—and seeking redemption. Tiffin’s portrayal captures Hardin’s inner turmoil, his rugged charm softened by moments of sincerity. Langford, though appearing less in this installment, imbues Tessa with quiet strength, her presence a beacon of hope for Hardin’s redemption.
Hessa’s chemistry is another reason they shine. Tiffin and Langford bring authenticity to their roles, their on-screen connection sparking in every glance and touch. Even in After Everything, where Tessa’s screen time is reduced, their scenes together crackle with intensity. A Pinterest board dedicated to “After” aesthetics, filled with Hessa moments, reflects fans’ obsession with their dynamic—Hardin’s edgy vibe complementing Tessa’s grounded warmth. Their ability to convey love amidst conflict makes them relatable, capturing the messy beauty of young romance.
The couple’s impact extends beyond the screen. Hessa has inspired a passionate fandom, with fan edits and montages flooding TikTok and YouTube. A 2023 YouTube video exploring the cast’s real-life partners underscores fans’ curiosity about Tiffin and Langford, whose off-screen friendship fuels their on-screen magic. On X, users share quotes from Hardin’s journey, celebrating his transformation for Tessa. This fan engagement highlights Hessa’s cultural resonance, as their story of love and redemption strikes a chord with audiences navigating their own relationships.
