Freeform's popular anthology series is a blend of teen drama and crime thriller, and the latter element may leave viewers wondering if Cruel Summer is based on a true story. Debuting in April 2021, Cruel Summer proved to be a hit, becoming Freeform's most-watched series to date. In June 2023, the premiere of Cruel Summer season 2 became the channel's highest-viewed telecast since the season 1 finale two years prior, proving its popularity among audiences.

Cruel Summer is an anthology series with elements of teen drama, thriller, and mystery. At the heart of each season is a crime story akin to those found in true crime books and podcasts. In Cruel Summer season 1, popular high-schooler Kate Wallis is abducted and held against her will while Cruel Summer season 2 unravels the mystery surrounding the death of Luke Chambers. Some similarities to real-life cases and the proliferation of true-crime stories in popular culture have led...