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The first episode of the third season of The Sex Lives of College Girls premiered on Max on November 21, 2024, with the second episode released a week later on November 28, 2024.
In the latest season, fans were surprised to learn that Renée Rapp, who plays Leighton Murray, would be leaving the series. Rapp’s departure was clear and her exit was woven into the storyline with a two-episode arc.
Showrunner Justin Noble mentioned in an interview with TheWrap on November 28, 2024:
“I was excited to do this transfer story because, my first year, one of my best friends transferred, and … that’s part of college that I haven’t seen before — when someone who’s so important to this aspect of your life is just saying they’re gone.
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Noble further mentioned:
"It’s really showing that Leighton kind of just figured college out faster than the others, and she’s ready to pursue what’s next.”
Leighton decides to transfer to MIT, marking a major shift in her character’s journey. While fans knew her departure was coming, the specifics of why Leighton was leaving Essex College, and why Renée Rapp was stepping away, remained unclear until later discussions.
Leighton Murray left as her character evolved. She decided to move after receiving an offer from MIT's math program, which she thought would help her career. Alicia, Leighton's girlfriend, was also leaving Essex, which reportedly influenced her transfer.
Renée Rapp leaving The Sex Lives of College Girls
A renewed focus on her music career led Renée Rapp to leave The Sex Lives of College Girls. In 2023, Rapp announced she would leave the series to pursue other projects. Her exit was planned and integrated into the plot as Leighton's transfer to MIT, being completed in Season 3's first two episodes.
According to show co-creator Justin Noble, the writers thought a transfer story for Leighton was fitting for her character. Rapp's real-life goals and character development influenced this decision.
Admittedly, Rapp struggled to leave the series. In interviews, she described how hard it was to say goodbye to Leighton, which had become a significant part of her life. Rapp said she struggled with her s*xuality while playing Leighton. Rapp said it was hard to play a character coming to terms with her sexuality in her first season because she was going through the same thing.
Leighton was crucial to the show, and Rapp's portrayal resonated with viewers, especially concerning her self-acceptance. The series focused on Leighton's transformation from a shy young girl to a confident woman.
Rapp explained how hard it was to film season 1's emotional scenes, especially when Leighton came out, which was difficult because it reflected her own internal struggles. Rapp was grateful to play such an important character despite the challenges.
Leighton in The Sex Lives of College Girls
Leighton, a wealthy student, came out as a lesbian and struggled with her identity. Her character arc revolved around her relationship with Midori Francis' Alicia, which was emotionally complex. In the first season, Leighton's self-discovery and college friendships, especially with her roommates, were highlights of the show.
Leighton leaving Essex College in Season 3 was a big turning point for the show. She decided that MIT was the next step in her life, even though she had close personal relationships at Essex.
How to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls
Max airs new episodes of The Sex Lives of College Girls season 3 every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET. Rapp's departure and the introduction of new characters give the series a new dynamic while maintaining its heartwarming and entertaining elements.
The plot synopsis
The Sex Lives of College Girls follows four Essex College students as they face challenges and grow as young adults. The show follows Leighton, Kimberly, Bela, and Whitney as they navigate relationships, academics, and identity.
Leighton's sexuality, Kimberly's ambition, and Bela's comedy dreams give the group unique perspectives. The show explores friendship, self-discovery, and young adulthood as they navigate personal and academic challenges.
The Sex Lives of College Girls is available to stream on Max.
