Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas: The Hype Around Their ‘Under You’ Music Video

When Nick Jonas released his single “Under You” in 2016, the accompanying music video instantly grabbed attention—not just for the song itself, but for the palpable chemistry between Jonas and his co-star, Shay Mitchell. The Canadian actress, best known for her role as Emily Fields in ‘Pretty Little Liars,’ was cast as the female lead in the video, playing Jonas’s tumultuous love interest. The result was a visually striking, emotionally charged mini-movie that resonated with fans and critics alike.

What Is the ‘Under You’ Music Video About?

The “Under You” video presents Nick Jonas and Shay Mitchell as former lovers caught in a whirlwind of raw emotion. The narrative centers on a passionate but fraught relationship, punctuated by moments of tension, longing, and explosive make-up scenes—most notably, a steamy shower encounter that became a major talking point among viewers. The video’s aesthetic—dark, moody, and cinematic—mirrors the intensity of the couple’s onscreen dynamic, with scenes of rain-soaked drives and trashed bedrooms amplifying the drama.

Behind the Scenes: Casting and Preparation

Casting Shay Mitchell was a deliberate choice. Nick Jonas later revealed that he felt the actress perfectly embodied the complexity required for the role, praising both her professionalism and her ability to tap into deep emotion for the performance. For her part, Mitchell expressed excitement about the project, noting that she was drawn to the song and the video’s concept before even knowing she would be in it. Both stars have publicly acknowledged their mutual admiration, with Jonas calling Mitchell “gorgeous and an amazing person,” while Mitchell described Jonas as genuinely passionate about his work.

  • The video was part of Nick Jonas’s album Last Year Was Complicated and was released in June 2016.
  • Mitchell was cast for her acting range and ability to handle the video’s emotionally intense scenes.
  • Directors aimed for a “mini-movie” feel, focusing on storytelling as much as musical performance.

Chemistry on Set: Real or Reel?

Given the intensity of their performances, fans quickly speculated about whether the chemistry between Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas extended beyond the screen. However, both actors made it clear that their connection was strictly professional. In interviews, Jonas emphasized Mitchell’s talent and dedication, while Mitchell highlighted the fun and collaborative nature of the shoot. There is no evidence of any off-screen romantic involvement between the two, with both maintaining respectful boundaries throughout the process.

Aspect Details
On-Screen Chemistry Highly praised for its authenticity and intensity; central to the video’s appeal
Off-Screen Relationship Strictly professional; both stars have denied any romantic involvement
Public Reaction Widespread media and fan interest in their dynamic

Fan and Media Reactions

The “Under You” video generated significant buzz online, with fans dissecting every frame for hints of real-life romance. Social media was flooded with reactions—some praising the pair’s sizzling chemistry, others playfully shipping them as a couple. Entertainment outlets covered the video extensively, often focusing on the shower scene as a highlight. This mix of genuine admiration and playful speculation helped drive the video’s virality.

Comparing Shay and Nick’s Careers

While the “Under You” video marked a high-profile collaboration, both Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas have since continued to build impressive careers. Mitchell, after “Pretty Little Liars,” starred in Netflix’s “You” and voiced the lead in “Trese,” while Jonas has focused on music, acting, and burgeoning business ventures. Despite their separate paths, the video remains a memorable moment in both of their careers.

  • Shay Mitchell: Continued success in television and film, with notable roles in “Dollface,” “You,” and as a voice actor.
  • Nick Jonas: Released several albums, appeared in films and TV, and became a judge on “The Voice.”

Breaking Down the “Under You” Music Video’s Most Memorable Moments

The “Under You” video is packed with striking visuals and emotionally charged scenes. Some of the most talked-about moments include:

  • The Shower Scene: The steamy shower make-out session between Jonas and Mitchell became an instant headline, symbolizing the video’s raw, unfiltered portrayal of love and conflict.
  • Rain-Soaked Drives: Scenes of the couple driving recklessly through pouring rain visually underscore the turbulent nature of their relationship.
  • Trashed Bedrooms: The aftermath of arguments is depicted through chaotic, destroyed interiors, hinting at deeper emotional damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Were Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas ever a real couple?

A: No, Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas were not romantically involved. Their relationship in the “Under You” music video was purely professional and part of the on-screen narrative.

Q: Who else has Shay Mitchell worked with in her career?

A: Mitchell has starred alongside Bianca Lawson, Sasha Pieterse, and Claire Holt in “Pretty Little Liars,” Kendrick Sampson in “Something from Tiffany’s,” and Elizabeth Lail in “You,” among others.

Q: Why was Shay Mitchell chosen for the ‘Under You’ video?

A: Nick Jonas and the producers felt Mitchell’s acting ability and on-screen presence matched the video’s emotional intensity and narrative depth. She was praised for her willingness to “dig deep” in acting out complex scenes.

Q: What was the public reception to the video?

A: The video drew significant media and fan attention, particularly for its dramatic scenes and the chemistry between Jonas and Mitchell. It was widely discussed on social media and entertainment news platforms.

Q: Where can I watch the “Under You” music video?

A: The music video was released on *TIDAL* and is widely available on major streaming platforms and video sharing sites.

Looking Back: The Legacy of “Under You”

Years after its release, the “Under You” music video remains a standout moment in Nick Jonas’s musical career and Shay Mitchell’s acting portfolio. Its combination of passion, drama, and cinematic storytelling set it apart from typical music videos, earning it a lasting place in pop culture memory. For fans of both stars, it represents a high-water mark of collaboration—one where artistry and performance converged to create something truly memorable.

While both Mitchell and Jonas have since moved on to new projects, their chemistry in “Under You” continues to be celebrated by fans and critics. The video stands as evidence of what can happen when talented professionals bring their A-game to a creative project—resulting in a product that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Key Takeaways

  • The “Under You” music video features Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas in a passionate, emotionally complex on-screen romance.
  • Their chemistry was widely praised, though their relationship was strictly professional.
  • The video’s most talked-about scenes include a steamy shower encounter and intense moments of conflict and reconciliation.
  • Both Mitchell and Jonas have continued to thrive in their respective careers post-collaboration.
  • The video’s impact endures, thanks to its cinematic quality and the authenticity of its performances.

For fans of music videos, celebrity culture, and compelling storytelling, the “Under You” collaboration between Shay Mitchell and Nick Jonas is still a must-watch—a testament to the power of chemistry, both on and off the screen.