Megan is highly sought after as Isabella and Luke discreetly compete for her attention in the thrilling second-to-last episode of Cruel Summer season 2.
In an exclusive sneak peek provided by We, for the episode airing on Monday, July 24, Luke (portrayed by Griffin Gluck) is taken aback when he learns that Megan (played by Sadie Stanley) has made plans with Isabella (portrayed by Lexi Underwood) that do not involve him.
Luke asked his girlfriend, "When are you planning to visit Madrid?" Isabella promptly responded, "Next summer."
Megan, on the other hand, attempted to argue that it wasn't certain. However, her friend pointed out that she had already begun the passport application process.
Luke asks why Megan didn't inform him about the surprising revelation. In reply, Megan explains that nothing is definite yet and mentions, "I was planning to tell you if it actually occurred."
Meanwhile, Isabella commends Megan on her development and departure from her life in Chatham. "Once it happens, she should explore and step out of her comfort zone. Remaining in one location for too long is detrimental to the spirit," she remarks.
Lexi Underwood, Griffin Gluck and Sadie Stanley. Freeform/Justine Yeung
Taking place in the winter of 1999, this scene is set against the backdrop of Luke's strained relationship with Isabella. The two had a fleeting romance before Isabella ended things so that Megan could pursue her childhood best friend. However, tensions escalated when Luke attempted to kiss Isabella and subsequently lied to Megan about what had transpired. Throughout season 2, the show has hinted at the trio's unresolved issues ultimately culminating in Luke's demise. His body was found in the summer of 2000, leaving Isabella and Megan as potential suspects.
Stanley, 21, disclosed that the cast of Cruel Summer's second season was completely unaware of the major revelations. The actors were only informed of their characters' involvement in Luke's death as they received the scripts. They were also kept in the dark about the events leading up to it. Stanley exclusively informed Us, stating that their focus was primarily on understanding their characters and their motivations.
According to Stanley, each episode of the series is designed to make viewers suspicious of a new character, leaving them with a fresh piece of information to ponder. He advises not to trust any of the characters, as it is not just about identifying the culprit. The focus lies on understanding the events that led to the current situation and realizing that not everyone is as they appear.
Underwood, 19, cautioned fans against jumping to conclusions when it comes to assigning blame. "Another significant enigma, similar to the unresolved mystery surrounding Luke's demise, lies in the true identities of these characters at their core. There is a facade that disguises the internal struggles they each endure across the three distinct timelines," she disclosed to Us at that moment. "Therefore, it is essential to remain vigilant and acknowledge that everyone is striving to seize control of their own fate. Consequently, complications arise, and their motives may become somewhat self-centered."
Freeform/Justine Yeung
KaDee Strickland, who portrays Megan's mother, discussed the manner in which the answers would be presented on the show leading up to the finale.
Upon reviewing the finale script, Strickland's initial thought was, "There are answers. We have an answer, thank you very much!" However, she expressed her appreciation for the fact that multiple ending options were filmed. She revealed that there are scenes they filmed that did not make it into the final show. Strickland acknowledged that the final edit can differ from what she read or filmed, which adds to the excitement of being a part of this captivating story. She mentioned the importance of being an audience member at times when the storyline is particularly compelling.
All cast interviews were conducted ahead of the SAG-AFTRA strike.
Cruel Summer airs on Freeform Mondays at 10 p.m.