'The Genius and the Bad Boy' Cast Guide: Who Plays Whom in the Vertical Drama

If you're looking to learn more about "The Genius and the Bad Boy" cast, this vertical drama brings together fresh faces and rising talent to tell a story filled with academic pressure, unexpected romance, and the kind of high school chaos that keeps viewers hooked.

"The Genius and the Bad Boy" weaves together academic ambition, romantic tension, and the challenges of fitting in at an elite high school. This guide breaks down the "The Genius and the Bad Boy" cast and the characters they bring to life.

Sophie May – Played by Claudia Hawkins

Claudia Hawkins makes her acting debut as Sophie May, a bold and brilliant student who earns a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Freemont Academy.

Sophie's story begins with her solving a challenging math equation to win the scholarship, but her arrival at her new school is far from smooth.

Shamed for her plus-size figure and struggling with a uniform that shrank in the laundry, Sophie's first day becomes even more chaotic when she is seated next to the notorious bad boy, Rylan Barry.

Detention on the first day does not stop Sophie from trying her best. However, she soon faces the added challenge of tutoring Rylan to keep her scholarship.

Despite initial misunderstandings and romantic misdirections involving Tanner, Rylan's brother, Sophie's journey is a mix of self-confidence and resilience, while navigating young love.

As part of "The Genius and the Bad Boy" cast, Claudia delivers a standout debut performance that hints at a promising future in vertical drama storytelling.

Rylan Barry – Played by Matthew Yish

Rylan Barry, the school's infamous bad boy, captures Sophie's attention despite her doubts about being "beautiful enough" for a popular guy like him.

Portrayed by Matthew Carder Yish, Rylan demonstrates that love can come in unexpected ways, including appreciating Sophie for who she is.

An Atlanta-based actor born in Boston, Matthew has been drawn to acting from a young age. "The Genius and the Bad Boy" is his first vertical drama, though he also appeared in the short "Eat Me, Baby!" His portrayal adds compelling layers to "The Genius and the Bad Boy" cast, especially as Rylan's softer side emerges.

Tanner – Played by Ford Nelson

Adding complexity to Sophie's love life is Tanner, Rylan's brother. He tries to trap her with bad intentions. Played by Ford Nelson, Tanner is a charming yet deceitful figure whose scheme challenges Sophie's trust and instincts.

Ford, also based in Atlanta, is no stranger to vertical shorts. His credits include "The Wedding Game," "I Conned a Billionaire to Be My Husband," "The Secret of Nami Sushi," and "The Heiress Returns: The Day I Fought Back." His experience and charisma make him a strong addition to "The Genius and the Bad Boy" cast.

Outside of acting, Ford is an avid soap maker and has lived all over the world thanks to his military family upbringing.

"The Genius and the Bad Boy" offers an engaging look at high school life through the lens of vertical storytelling. The high school love triangle trope in the show is a familiar theme in the industry, as it's one of the many central themes for hundreds of vertical dramas.

The fresh talent of Claudia Hawkins, Matthew Yish, and Ford Nelson brings the series' vibrant characters to life, making it a compelling watch for fans looking for a light and engaging short-form drama.