I haven’t heard of Loveboat, Tapei, but I am going to order it and read it. Why? Because Ashley Liao (Physical, Fresh Off the Boat) and Ross Butler (Netflix’s To All The Boys franchise, Shazam!) have signed on to headline the adaptation which will begin production soon in Tapei.
The book is based on Abigail Hing Wen’s New York Times bestselling novel of the same name.
“These past few months have been a dream watching this cast filling out. I’m thrilled to have the incredibly talented Ashley and Ross take the lead in bringing Ever and Rick from the pages of my story to the screen, and to have Chelsea and Nico on board as well,” said the author, Abigail Hing Wen. “I can’t wait to see sparks fly as these four pal around Taipei, and for everyone to meet the amazing ensemble and magic still to come.”
The book centers around, “Ever Wong, whose summer takes an unexpected turn when her parents surprise her with a trip to Taipei for a cultural immersion program. Ever is surprised to discover that she hasn’t signed up for homework and history lessons, but instead for a summer-long free-for-all the locals and other students call “Loveboat.” It quickly lives up to its name when Ever finds herself trying not to fall for two attractive, but wildly different boys who are vying for her attention, while at the same time finding the courage to defy her parents’ high expectations and pursue her true passion: dancing.”
Butler will play Evan Woo. He’s a jock. Ever calls him “boy wonder.” He’s never met his match until he meets Ever.
Also added to the cast are Nico Hiraga (Booksmart) and Chelsea Zhang (Daybreak).
Hiraga plays a rich kid, Xavier Yeh. He’s a free spirit and the heir to a tech empire, but he’s not sure that’s what he wants. He’s more interested in art, but that all changes when he meets Ever.
Zhang plays Chloe, Evers best friend. She’s also ready for a summer of fun, exploration and love. Everyone needs a best friend.
We can’t wait to read the book (which came out in 2020 and we apparently slept on). Have you read it? Are you excited for the adaptation?