Carson Rowland Departs Sweet Magnolias; Speculation Swirls Over Off Campus Role

Actor Carson Rowland will not be returning for Sweet Magnolias season five on Netflix, prompting speculation among viewers about his next project.

Showrunner Sheryl J. Anderson recently confirmed Rowland's departure, revealing to Us Weekly that the decision came from the actor himself. "He had some other opportunities that I'm really excited for him about," Anderson shared. "He's a really, really good friend of mine, and so that's something that's really exciting for him and for all of us. We're all still so supportive of him."

Sweet Magnolias season five is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on June 5.

The timing of Rowland's exit has fueled fan theories about his next professional move. Internet sleuths have pointed to his recent Instagram activity, noting that he followed Off Campus actors Jalen Thomas Brooks and Antonio Cipriano, both of whom reciprocated by following him back. Rowland also followed Stephen Kalyn, who plays Dean on the Prime Video series.

These connections have led viewers to wonder whether Rowland might be joining the cast. Speculation has centered on the character Jake Connelly, adapted from Elle Kennedy's book series. In the source material, Jake is portrayed as Harvard's standout hockey player, and fans have theorized he could be well-suited for the role.

As of now, Prime Video has not issued any statement regarding the casting rumors, and nothing has been officially confirmed.