By Jia Lissa 
The adage "what happens off-campus stays off-campus" took a whimsical turn recently, at least in the digital realm, as actor Belmont Cameli, known for his role as Garrett Graham in Prime Video’s Off-Campus, shared a surprising behind-the-scenes moment. In an exclusive interview with Allure, Cameli revealed the story behind a viral mirror selfie that showcased him sporting a strikingly different look: a blonde, shaggy wig reminiscent of his co-star Stephen Kalyn’s character, Dean De Laurentis. This temporary transformation, born from a moment of on-set camaraderie, sparked considerable fan discussion, particularly among followers of the book-to-screen adaptation who noted that Garrett Graham’s character never undergoes such a drastic hair change in the original novels.
Cameli explained that the blonde wig was readily available in the hair and makeup trailer, intended for stand-ins or doubles. "Everybody has [an extra] wig for doubles or stand-ins, and they’re all on little foam heads in the hair-and-makeup trailer," Cameli recounted. "I put his wig on, and I was just doing his character to him." This playful exchange led to the now-famous selfie, which quickly circulated online, prompting speculation about a potential plot point for the second season of the popular series.
However, Cameli was quick to quell any such rumors, emphasizing the lighthearted nature of the incident. "The chances of the blonde moment making it into season two of Prime Video’s hit show, though, are unlikely. ‘I was just messing with Stephen, as I usually am,’ Cameli says." This underscores the relaxed and collaborative atmosphere on set, where actors engage in spontaneous moments of fun that occasionally spill over into public view.
The styling choices for the Briar Hawks hockey team in Off-Campus are intentionally kept grounded and authentic to their roles as college athletes. Cameli elaborated on this approach, stating, "Hair and makeup on the set of Off-Campus is intentionally kept simple for the Briar Hawks hockey team. ‘These boys are college athletes, so we keep hair and makeup pretty minimal. We don’t do anything too crazy for Garrett on the show because we want him to feel like an authentically college-aged athlete, a dude living in a house with other dudes. None of the characters would have too long of a routine.’" This commitment to realism aims to enhance the audience’s immersion in the world of the show, ensuring that the characters feel relatable and genuine.
.jpg)
When asked about the cast’s morning routines, Cameli humorously pointed out that while he considers himself relatively quick to get ready, Stephen Kalyn is a different story. "However, if there’s one cast member that takes more time to get ready to film than others, Cameli jokes that it’s Kalyn. ‘I don’t know what the hell he’s doing in there, but he takes so long to get ready,’ he says. ‘I would say I’m pretty quick.’" This lighthearted jab adds another layer of personality to the behind-the-scenes narrative, humanizing the actors and their interactions.
Cameli’s preference for simplicity extends beyond the set and into his personal life, particularly concerning his hair. "Cameli says he shares that desire for simplicity with his character. ‘I’m somebody who cannot spend too much time on my hair,’ he says." This personal connection to ease and efficiency in his grooming routine led to a natural partnership with Tresemmé, where he stars in their "Hot Curl Summer" campaign. The campaign highlights his streamlined approach to managing his curls, utilizing three key products from their Bouncy Curls line: the defining cream, mousse, and air-dry foam.
"With the defining cream, mousse, and air-dry foam—using those in succession—it doesn’t take very long just to get your hair right… They smell good, too," Cameli shared, emphasizing the efficacy and pleasant sensory experience of the products. This endorsement speaks to the brand’s ability to cater to individuals who seek both effective solutions and a pleasant user experience. The collaboration aligns perfectly with Cameli’s practical approach to personal care, making the partnership feel authentic and mutually beneficial.
The article also delves into the olfactory landscape of the Off-Campus set, particularly in the context of a hockey show. Cameli humorously acknowledged the inherent challenges of maintaining pleasant scents amidst the rigors of athletic portrayal. "With all the action on set, products that smell good only help. ‘We stink when we’re playing hockey; but I mean ultimately there’s nothing you can do about that. The [skaters] that come to fill out our teams, as well as our doubles, usually come in their own gear, which they’ve been wearing for years and stink to high heaven.’" This candid observation offers a humorous glimpse into the realities of portraying athletes, where the authenticity of the experience can sometimes lead to less-than-ideal aromas.
Despite the potential for less-than-ideal smells on set, Cameli finds that his chosen hair products contribute to a more pleasant personal scent. "What keeps him smelling fresh? His hair products: ‘I usually just end up smelling what my hair smells like,’ he says, Old Spice Fiji Deodorant, and a shower. ‘A good shower is really all it takes, but if we’re shooting hockey stuff, you’re just going to smell.’" This highlights the dual function of his grooming routine: not only does it style his hair, but it also contributes to his personal fragrance, a subtle but important aspect of maintaining a sense of well-being, even in demanding circumstances.
.jpg)
Beyond the professional sphere and the demands of his role, Cameli also revealed his preferences for post-filming relaxation. His ideal scenario for unwinding involves embracing comfort, a sentiment that resonates with many. "On days when he has a light schedule after filming, Cameli prioritizes comfort. That involves getting in a sweatsuit (‘I’m big on sweatsuits made by Ryoko Rain, and have been for a long time’), wrapping himself in a large blanket (particularly the L.L. Bean Wicked Cozy Blanket), and lighting a Diptyque candle (‘I’m a big candle guy right now’). ‘When I’m home (especially after being in hockey equipment or being on set all day), I just want to get cozy,’ he says." This emphasis on comfort and self-care demonstrates a well-rounded perspective, acknowledging the importance of personal downtime amidst a busy career.
The Off-Campus series, based on the popular novels by Elle Kennedy, has garnered significant attention since its premiere. The first season, released on Prime Video, adapted the first book in the "Off-Campus" series, The Deal. The show follows the lives of hockey players at Briar University, focusing on themes of romance, college life, and athletic competition. The casting of Cameli as Garrett Graham was met with anticipation by fans of the books, and his portrayal has been generally well-received. The show’s success can be attributed to its engaging storylines, relatable characters, and the chemistry among its cast members.
The narrative of The Deal itself centers on Hannah Wells, a diligent student who finds herself drawn to the enigmatic and intimidating hockey captain, Garrett Graham. Their initial interactions are fraught with tension, but as they are forced to spend more time together, a complex relationship begins to develop. The novel explores themes of consent, communication, and overcoming personal demons, all within the vibrant backdrop of college athletics. The transition to a visual medium required careful consideration of how to translate these themes and character dynamics to the screen.
The viral blonde wig incident, while a minor on-set anecdote, taps into the broader phenomenon of fan engagement with popular media adaptations. Social media platforms have become crucial spaces for fans to discuss, dissect, and speculate about their favorite shows and movies. When an actor shares a glimpse behind the curtain, it often sparks a flurry of activity, demonstrating the deep connection fans feel with the characters and the actors who portray them. This engagement, in turn, can contribute to the show’s visibility and sustained interest.
The show’s production team, in crafting the visual identity of the Briar Hawks, made a conscious decision to maintain a level of authenticity. This involves not only the costume design but also the hair and makeup. The aim is to present the characters as believable college athletes, rather than highly stylized or overly polished individuals. This approach is consistent with the genre of contemporary romance and college dramas, where a degree of realism often enhances the audience’s connection to the story.
Cameli’s endorsement of Tresemmé products also aligns with a growing trend of celebrity partnerships with beauty and lifestyle brands. These collaborations often leverage the actor’s personal experiences and preferences to create authentic endorsements. By highlighting his use of specific products to manage his curls, Cameli offers a tangible connection for viewers who may share similar hair concerns or who are simply interested in his grooming habits. The "Hot Curl Summer" campaign itself suggests a focus on embracing natural texture and celebrating individual beauty, themes that resonate with a broad audience.
The discussion of scents, while seemingly tangential, also adds a layer of relatable humor and authenticity to the interview. The acknowledgment that hockey players, by nature, might not always smell the freshest is a candid observation that many can appreciate. It underscores the contrast between the gritty reality of athletic performance and the desire for personal grooming and freshness. Cameli’s preference for pleasant-smelling hair products and a good shower highlights his personal approach to maintaining a sense of well-being, even when faced with less-than-ideal circumstances.
Finally, Cameli’s emphasis on comfort and relaxation speaks to the importance of self-care for individuals in demanding professions. The specific brands he mentions – Ryoko Rain for sweatsuits, L.L. Bean for blankets, and Diptyque for candles – offer a glimpse into his personal taste and his commitment to creating a cozy and comforting environment. This aspect of the interview humanizes the actor, revealing his preferences and routines beyond his on-screen persona. It suggests that even those in the spotlight value simple pleasures and the importance of creating personal sanctuaries. The sustained popularity of Off-Campus and the continued engagement with its cast members indicate a strong audience connection, with these behind-the-scenes insights further solidifying that bond. The show’s future seasons will undoubtedly be met with continued fan interest, eager to see how the characters and their stories evolve.
