'You Drive Me Crazy' Cast Guide: Meet the Actors Behind the ReelShort Vertical Drama
Feb 03, 2026
Sully Christian and Evan Adams | Source: Instagram/danielacouso
'Dear Stranger I Love You' Cast: Full List of Actors and Characters
A clever plan to help two classmates win their crushes takes an emotional turn in “Dear Stranger I Love You,” where secret letters, hidden feelings, and unexpected chemistry collide in this intimate vertical drama.
Vertical dramas continue to redefine romantic storytelling, and “Dear Stranger I Love You” is a standout example of how short-form series can deliver emotional depth without overstaying their welcome.
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Built around a clever premise and grounded performances, the drama follows two high school classmates whose innocent scheme to help each other win their crushes slowly unravels into something far more complicated.
For viewers searching for a complete breakdown of the “Dear Stranger I Love You” cast, here’s a closer look at the actors and the characters who bring this heartfelt story to life.
The Story Behind “Dear Stranger I Love You”
At its core, “Dear Stranger I Love You” is about intention versus emotion. Mia Brooks, a top student with a hidden talent for writing, secretly runs an essay and letter-writing service for classmates who struggle to express themselves. Her anonymity keeps her safe — until Brad Sterling, the school’s well-meaning jock, stumbles upon her secret.
Brad isn’t looking to expose Mia. Instead, he needs her help. He has feelings for Chloe Hartwell but doesn’t know how to put his emotions into words. A deal is struck: Mia will help Brad write heartfelt love letters to Chloe, and in return, Brad will help Mia get closer to her own crush, Dan Mercer.
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What begins as a practical arrangement soon becomes emotionally messy. As letters are exchanged and friendships deepen, feelings emerge where neither of them expected them to.
Daniela Couso as Mia Brooks
Daniela Couso leads the series as Mia Brooks, a character defined by intelligence, restraint, and quiet vulnerability. Mia is the kind of student who excels academically but struggles socially, relying on words on paper rather than spoken conversation. Her secret essay business becomes both her shield and her undoing.
Couso brings nuance to Mia’s emotional arc, especially as Mia begins to realize that her long-time crush on Dan is built more on fantasy than reality. Her performance captures the awkwardness of first love while allowing Mia to grow into someone who learns to value honesty over hiding.
Fans of vertical dramas may already recognize Daniela Couso from other titles such as “Rush Into Love,” “The Double Life of the Billionaire Couple,” “True Heiress vs. Fake Queen Bee,” and “Damn! The Duke Got the Wrong Girl.” Her growing presence across the genre makes her a central figure in discussions about the “Dear Stranger I Love You” cast.
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Evan Adams as Brad Sterling
Evan Adams plays Brad Sterling, the school athlete whose reputation doesn’t quite match his emotional reality. Brad appears confident on the surface, but when it comes to romance, he’s unsure and surprisingly sensitive. His reliance on Mia’s words slowly transforms into genuine admiration for the person behind them.
Adams delivers a performance that avoids the typical “jock” stereotype, giving Brad depth and sincerity. As Brad begins dating Chloe, his growing feelings for Mia create internal conflict that drives much of the story’s emotional tension.
Viewers may recognize Evan Adams from other popular vertical dramas including “Kissing the Wrong Brother,” “Lap by Lap: Back to You,” “The Bad Boy Who Ruined Me,” “Pucked by My Brother’s Rival,” and “Hot Gardener’s Seduction.”
Shayla Stensby as Chloe Hartwell
Shayla Stensby portrays Chloe Hartwell, the object of Brad’s affection and the recipient of Mia’s carefully crafted love letters. Chloe is kind, open-hearted, and genuinely touched by the vulnerability expressed in the messages she receives.
What makes Chloe’s character compelling is her sincerity. She isn’t manipulative or dismissive, and her responses to Brad are rooted in honest emotion. Stensby’s performance helps ground the romantic triangle, making the consequences of the characters’ choices feel real rather than melodramatic.
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The cast of "Dear Stranger, I Love You" on set, posted on May 8, 2025. | Source: Instagram/danielacouso
Sully Christian as Dan Mercer
Sully Christian takes on the role of Dan Mercer, Mia’s original crush. Dan initially appears charming and desirable, but as Mia gets closer to him, his shallow nature becomes increasingly clear. One pivotal moment—when he abandons Mia during a date—forces her to confront the difference between infatuation and genuine connection.
Christian’s portrayal of Dan serves an important narrative purpose, highlighting how misplaced admiration can cloud judgment and delay emotional growth.
Christian Sully and Daniela Couso on the set of "Dear Stranger, I Love You," posted on May 8, 2025.| Source: Instagram/danielacouso
Why the Cast Works So Well Together
The strength of the “Dear Stranger I Love You” cast lies in its chemistry. Each actor plays a role that feels believable within the confined, fast-paced format of a vertical drama. The series doesn’t rely on exaggerated twists; instead, it allows small emotional moments to carry the weight of the story.
As Mia and Brad’s unplanned love slowly surfaces, the cast ensures the transition feels earned rather than forced. Their journey reminds viewers that sometimes the person who understands you best isn’t the one you set out to chase.
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For fans of romantic vertical dramas, “Dear Stranger I Love You” stands out not just for its premise, but for a cast that turns a simple idea into a memorable emotional experience.
