Why After We Fell Recast Landon & So Many Other Characters?

The third and fourth films in the After franchise were shot back-to-back in Bulgaria in late 2020, as part of a cost-effective and safe plan during the global health crisis. However, this decision meant that some of the original cast members were unable or unwilling to travel due to COVID-19 restrictions, scheduling conflicts, or other professional commitments. Shane Paul McGhie, who originally played Landon and quickly became a fan favorite for his calm, rational, and loyal portrayal of Hardin’s best friend, was notably absent. McGhie reportedly stepped away from the role due to creative differences and contract disputes, later confirming via Instagram that while he appreciated the fans’ love and support, his journey with the franchise had ended. Replacing him was British actor Chance Perdomo, best known for his role as Ambrose in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Perdomo brought a new energy to Landon, and while many fans welcomed his performance, others felt jarred by the sudden change, particularly since no in-universe explanation was provided.

The character of Christian Vance also saw a major change. Originally portrayed by Charlie Weber, Vance is a central figure in Tessa’s professional life and becomes increasingly important as the story unfolds. Due to travel and scheduling issues, the role was taken over by True Blood star Stephen Moyer, whose more mature and intense portrayal gave the character a slightly different vibe. Fans of the books, who had a clear picture of Vance in mind, were once again left to adjust. Similarly, Kimberly, Vance’s partner, who was initially played by The Vampire Diaries alum Candice King, was recast with Arielle Kebbel of John Tucker Must Die fame. King was reportedly pregnant at the time of filming and unable to travel for the shoot in Bulgaria, making the switch necessary. While Kebbel is a strong actress with notable experience in romantic dramas, the change added yet another layer of disorientation for loyal viewers. The decision not to acknowledge these changes within the films themselves added fuel to the fire.

Characters reappeared with different faces, voices, and energies, but the story marched forward as if nothing had changed. For some fans, the seamless continuity was appreciated, allowing the drama between Tessa and Hardin to remain front and center. For others, it was a glaring distraction that pulled them out of the story. Recasting isn’t always easy, especially when the characters being replaced have already formed emotional connections with audiences. In After We Fell, the impact was particularly noticeable because of the franchise’s reliance on interpersonal relationships. The chemistry between characters is everything in a romantic drama, and swapping out actors mid-series means risking that chemistry entirely. But context matters. The production team was operating under immense pressure, trying to deliver two films during a global pandemic with countless logistical hurdles. The decision to film in Bulgaria allowed them to control the environment, protect the cast and crew, and keep costs manageable, but it also meant losing cast members who couldn’t make the trip or commit to the accelerated timeline.

In retrospect, while the casting changes in After We Fell were jarring, they were also understandable. The world was in crisis, and the filmmakers made pragmatic choices to keep the story going. For some fans, it was a betrayal of continuity. For others, it was just another twist in a saga defined by emotional turbulence. Either way, it’s a reminder that behind the passionate kisses and dramatic confrontations on screen lies a real-world process that’s messy, complicated, and, at times, completely out of the creators’ control. In the end, what matters most is the emotional journey—and in that regard, After We Fell delivered exactly what it promised: intensity, heartbreak, and a love story you can’t stop watching, even when the characters suddenly look a little different.