“All American” has been a staple in teen drama television, captivating audiences with its heartfelt storytelling, relatable struggles, and the powerful intersection of sports, identity, and ambition. As the series enters its seventh season, it marks a transformative chapter, both for the show and its beloved characters.
Returning to familiar roots at Beverly Hills High and South Crenshaw High, Season 7 introduces fresh faces and new challenges while shining a light on the original characters as they step into new roles of responsibility. Among those at the forefront of this shift are Jordan Baker (Michael Evans Behling) and Layla Keating (Greta Onieogou), whose journey from high school to adulthood has resonated deeply with fans.
In an exclusive interview with Where Is The Buzz, Behling and Onieogou shared their thoughts on their characters’ evolution, the show’s impact, and the exciting changes awaiting fans this season.
Reflecting on Seven Seasons of Growth
Few teen dramas have had the longevity and cultural significance of All American. Since its debut in 2018, the show has masterfully balanced coming-of-age themes with real-world issues, making it a defining series for The CW.
For Michael Evans Behling, the long journey of Jordan Baker has been both rewarding and transformative. “The evolution of the characters is really a testament to our writers and showrunner,” Behling shared. “The amazing stories they’ve been able to tell and continue to tell—it’s been a privilege to bring Jordan to life and see him mature over the years.”
Similarly, Greta Onieogou expressed her deep connection to Layla’s storyline, emphasizing the importance of representation in media. “I’ve really related to Layla’s journey and how she’s grown. It’s about showing kids they can see themselves on screen—whether that’s through how they look or what they’re going through,” she explained.
The series has been praised for its ability to evolve with its characters, ensuring that their stories remain compelling and authentic as they transition into adulthood.
Jordan and Layla: Embracing New Roles in Season 7
Season 7 is set to be one of the most pivotal yet, particularly for Jordan and Layla. No longer high school students, the two must now navigate the complexities of adulthood, career ambitions, and marriage—all while mentoring the younger generation.
Jordan’s Coaching Journey: Following in His Father’s Footsteps
One of the most significant changes for Jordan is his transition into coaching. Stepping into the role that his father, Billy Baker, once held, Jordan is determined to shape young athletes while staying connected to the game he loves.
“I believe coaching is Jordan’s true calling,” Behling noted. “It allows him to remain close to the field while also discovering a new passion—changing lives and being a mentor to the next generation.”
The decision to become a coach not only reflects Jordan’s personal growth but also serves as a tribute to his late father’s legacy. Throughout the season, viewers will see him struggle to balance his professional aspirations with his personal responsibilities, particularly as a supportive husband to Layla.
Layla as a Mentor: Giving Back to the Next Generation
Layla, a character who has long been on a journey of self-discovery, also takes on a more significant mentorship role this season. From a high school student dealing with personal trauma to a young woman finding her purpose, Layla’s evolution has been one of All American’s most inspiring arcs.
“She’s passing on the support she’s received,” Onieogou said of Layla’s growth. “This season, we see her stepping into that role naturally, particularly with some of the younger characters. She’s been fortunate to have strong support systems, and now she’s becoming that for others.”
Her mentorship dynamic will be particularly evident with new characters like Amina, as Layla guides them through their own challenges and ambitions.
Jordan and Layla’s Marriage: Navigating Love and Change
While All American has always had strong romantic storylines, Jordan and Layla’s relationship is one that fans have closely followed. Now married, their dynamic shifts as they support one another’s personal and professional growth.
“As with any relationship, you grow individually, and hopefully, you grow together as well,” Onieogou explained. “You’ll see Jordan and Layla really encouraging each other this season, providing advice and emotional support through all of the changes they’re facing.”
Jordan’s priority is to be the best husband possible. “He’s wanted to be a husband for a long time,” Behling admitted. “And now that he has that with Layla, he’s doing everything he can to be a loving and supportive partner.”
Their relationship will face challenges, but their bond remains strong, showcasing a mature and inspiring partnership that continues to evolve.
A New Era for All American
Season 7 marks a transition not just for the characters but for the show itself. With the departure of original stars like Daniel Ezra (Spencer James) and Samantha Logan (Olivia Baker), the series is embracing a new direction while staying true to its roots.
Showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll has emphasized the importance of reintroducing high school dynamics, focusing on fresh storylines and new faces while ensuring that the original cast members serve as guiding figures.
“We wanted to reset the show in a way that still felt authentic,” Carroll explained. “Our core cast is growing into adulthood, but that doesn’t mean the heart of the series has changed. The essence of All American—mentorship, community, and perseverance—remains at the forefront.”
The introduction of new characters, including Osy Ikhile, Nathaniel McIntyre, Antonio J. Bell, and Alexis Chikaeze, brings a renewed energy to the series, ensuring its longevity while maintaining the emotional depth that fans love.
What’s Next for Jordan and Layla?
With Jordan stepping into his coaching career and Layla embracing mentorship, the couple faces an exciting yet uncertain future. Their storylines promise to be some of the most compelling of the season, blending personal growth, relationship dynamics, and the ever-present themes of All American.
Fans can expect to see Jordan face challenges in his new role, as he works to establish himself as a coach while staying true to his values. Meanwhile, Layla’s mentorship journey will explore the impact of her guidance on the younger generation.
The beauty of All American lies in its ability to grow alongside its characters, reflecting real-life transitions and struggles. As Season 7 unfolds, Jordan and Layla’s evolution serves as a testament to the show’s dedication to authentic storytelling and meaningful representation.
When and Where to Watch
New episodes of All American air on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on The CW. For those looking to catch up, the first six seasons are available for streaming on Netflix.
With All American continuing to leave an indelible mark on pop culture, Season 7 promises to be a powerful chapter—one that celebrates growth, love, and the next generation.
The Impact of Layla and Jordan
Michael Evans Behling and Greta Onieogou’s reflections on their characters underscore the depth and impact of All American. Their performances have brought Jordan and Layla to life in a way that resonates deeply with audiences, making their next steps all the more exciting to witness.
As the show embraces a new era, one thing remains clear: All American is more than just a teen drama—it’s a story about dreams, resilience, and the bonds that shape us.
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