Stars of 'Every Year After' Unpack Controversial Cliffhanger Ending

Prime Video has recently launched its latest romance novel TV adaptation, "Every Year After," which transports viewers to the picturesque Canadian town of Barry's Bay. The series, based on Carley Fortune's novel "Every Summer After," follows Percy (Sadie Soverall) as she returns to her childhood summer retreat after more than a decade away, triggered by a family tragedy. Her return forces her to confront not only her complicated past with her childhood sweetheart, Sam Florek (Matt Cornett), but also a scandalous secret she shares with Sam's brother, Charlie (Michael Bradway).

Season 1 of "Every Year After" largely focuses on Sam and Percy's journey to mend their shattered relationship and find their way back to each other, culminating in a dramatic plot twist that leaves Charlie's fate uncertain after a heart attack. Actors Sadie Soverall and Matt Cornett shared insights into their casting process and their experience working together on the show.

Both actors detailed their audition experiences, which involved initial virtual sessions under code names and with fake scripts to maintain secrecy. Matt Cornett recalled sending in a tape for Sam, followed by two sessions with director Amy Harris, and then chemistry reads with both Sadie Soverall and Michael Bradway. Soverall similarly underwent two or three initial Zoom auditions, often fitting them in backstage while performing in a play in New York. Both found the chemistry reads to be an exciting and fun part of the process.

Addressing the inherent drama in Sam and Percy's relationship, Soverall and Cornett expressed their belief in the couple's long-term viability despite the complexities, including Percy's past liaison with Charlie. Soverall highlighted their undeniable magnetism and shared core values, suggesting they are deeply similar souls with common life aspirations. Cornett echoed this, emphasizing their profound love and historical trust. While acknowledging that Sam discovering the truth about Percy and Charlie would undoubtedly strain their trust, he believes their deep-rooted history will enable them to communicate and eventually rebuild their bond.

Looking ahead to a potential Season 2, both actors anticipate a focus on the couple rebuilding their friendship and trust. Soverall envisions them spending more time in Barry's Bay, particularly at The Tavern, and exploring how they reintegrate into each other's lives. Cornett agreed, stressing the necessity for them to start over and address the significant events that have transpired between them.

Soverall also shed light on Percy's deeper motivations for returning to Barry's Bay, explaining that the town is where her soul truly resides, a place where she found happiness and passion. The draw of The Tavern and a sense of belonging are powerful forces for her, along with an enduring pull towards Sam. Cornett discussed Sam's potential reaction to Charlie's heart attack, suggesting that while they are brothers, Charlie's past betrayal was monumental in Sam's eyes. He believes significant work is needed to mend their relationship, with the impetus for reconciliation likely stemming from Charlie. Cornett concluded by expressing his anticipation for the writers to craft the next chapter of Charlie and Sam's tumultuous brotherly bond.