Off Campus star Ella Bright has addressed the growing number of fans hoping her on-screen romance with Belmont Cameli would turn into a real-life relationship, making it clear that the pair are simply close friends.

The Prime Video adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s bestselling novel The Deal premiered in May and quickly became a hit among romance fans. Bright stars as Hannah Wells, while Cameli plays Garrett Graham, the popular college hockey captain. Their chemistry on screen has earned praise from viewers and fueled speculation that the actors might be dating away from the cameras.

However, during an appearance on Owen Thiele’s In Your Dreams podcast, Bright firmly dismissed those rumors.

The 19-year-old actress said she understands why fans enjoy imagining the two together, especially after watching their characters’ romance develop throughout the first season. Even so, she admitted the constant online speculation feels strange because their relationship has always been strictly platonic.

Bright described Cameli as “literally my brother,” explaining that their friendship developed naturally while filming the series. She added that although she has not followed much of the online discussion herself, she knows many viewers continue to hope the actors become a couple.

The actress also pointed out another important reason why a real-life romance is not possible.

Cameli has been in a relationship with television writer Raina Morris since 2025. Bright spoke warmly about Morris, describing her as a wonderful person and expressing admiration for her. Her comments reinforced that there is mutual respect among everyone involved rather than any romantic tension behind the scenes.

Bright has previously spoken about the close friendship she and Cameli formed while working on Off Campus. The pair first met during chemistry reads before filming began and quickly became friends. According to Bright, they exchanged phone numbers early in the casting process and built a strong working relationship throughout production.

She explained that filming the series often meant spending 15- or 16-hour days together, making trust and friendship essential. Rather than creating romantic feelings, those long days strengthened their bond as colleagues. Bright has also said she looks up to Cameli professionally and appreciates the support he offered while filming the series.

Beyond discussing fan speculation, Bright also shared her current outlook on dating.

When asked whether she would ever date a fellow actor, she admitted she is hesitant. Although she did not completely rule out the possibility, she suggested that working in the same profession could make relationships more complicated.

For now, Bright confirmed that she is single and has no immediate interest in starting a new relationship. She said she has been enjoying this stage of her life and appreciates having the opportunity to focus on herself while adjusting to the significant career changes that have come with the success of Off Campus.

The popularity of the series has naturally increased interest in the cast’s personal lives, particularly because Hannah and Garrett’s romance remains one of the most beloved relationships in contemporary sports romance fiction. However, Bright’s latest comments draw a clear distinction between the fictional couple audiences have embraced and the genuine friendship she shares with Cameli.

While fans may continue celebrating the chemistry between Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham on screen, Bright has made it clear that off screen, she and Cameli are simply close friends who enjoyed bringing a favorite book romance to life.

Source: Compiled from various sources.