The big Netflix series, Heartstopper first premiered in spring 2022, and its popularity brought it to the Netflix Top Ten list over three times. Based on the graphic novels written and illustrated by Alice Oseman, Heartstopper primarily follows a 16 year old boy named Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), who is navigating the social ins and outs of Truman, a British all boys high school, while being openly gay.
While the first two seasons center around the swirling romance between Charlie and Truman’s star rugby player, Nick Nelson (Kit Connor), the newest season has taken a dramatic turn in beginning to focus on the mental health struggles of the characters.
The creators’ commitment to honor the authenticity of the graphic novels attracted many of the avid readers to watch the show. Alice Oseman’s unique illustration style is prominently featured in the show, and the editing and set perfectly replicate the drawings in the comic. The script, at times, is also verbatim of what is said in the graphic novels. These factors combine to allow long time fans of the franchise to feel completely submerged within the original Heartstopper universe.
“I think the new season is going to be great, based on the feedback of fans on TikTok and Instagram. The graphic novel has great reviews and so did the past two seasons, so I know the third will be amazing. I cannot wait to see it,” said sophomore Helene Burke.
Not only have the graphic novels and series gained immense popularity on TikTok, but it emphasizes a push for self-confidence and LGBTQ+ rights among members of Gen Z, with the cast members often seen at pride parades around England and the U.S.
Heartstopper has not only given fans the confidence to become more open about their sexuality, but also has inspired some of the cast members to do the same. This year, Kizzy Edgell, who plays Darcy Olsson, talked about his journey with his sexuality and how the show allowed them to find his true self. In several interviews, he elaborates on the personal changes he began to go through when they started Heartstopper, and how the unconditional support given by the cast and Alice Oseman allowed them to openly live life as transmasculine and queer person earlier this year.
While Edgell’s transition was promoted by positive self-discovery, Kit Connor’s coming out as bisexual was promoted by social media pressure. Many people on TikTok, Instagram, and even Twitter began to question Connor’s sexuality claiming that he could not be straight with the way he looks at his co-star, Joe Locke. Some social media spectators even began to label Connor as “queerbaiting” after he was spotted holding hands with actress Maia Reficco. As the rumors spiraled, Connor tweeted “back for a minute. i’m bi. congrats for forcing an 18 year old to out himself.”
Although the tweet was later deleted, the message sent shock waves through the Heartstopper fanbase. Fans were upset because many on social media had neglected to see the point of the show: to uplift people, and allow them to be open about their sexuality on their own terms.
Season three takes a huge pivot in content as it begins to focus more on the realities of growing up. Nick Nelson (Conner), Tara Jones (Corinna Brown), Elle Argent (Yasmin Finney), and Imogen Heaney (Rhea Norwood), all start to apply to university. While Elle is sure she wants to pursue art, Tara, Nick, and Imogen are all undecided on where they want to go and what they want to study.
“This season was more mature than the rest, but still found a way to keep the Heartstopper feel to it. From season one to now, the show is set up in a way where the audience feels like they are growing with the characters. I truly related to Nick this season, as I am also going through the college process, and seeing him go through this made me feel better about my personal experience,” said senior Liesha Sewani.
In addition, as Nick grapples with going away to college, struggles to leave his boyfriend, as he feels he does not truly know who he is without him. Back at home, Charlie is struggling with anorexia. His road to recovery, like many who struggle with any mental disease or eating disorder, is not linear; however, many fans have resonated with the show choosing to highlight such serious and real topics that affect so many young lives today.
“Heartstopper season 3 brought attention to prominent and urgent issues that teenagers face today. Coming into your own and being who you authentically are is scary for most people our age,” said sophomore Emaan Hanif.
While some dismiss Heartstopper as teen melodrama, many feel validation in its character’s story lines and find strength in the character’s actions. Heartstopper is an entertaining series for anyone who wants to tap into their own inner strength and find themselves, even if it’s frightening.