It is difficult to imagine Heartstopper coming to an end after the queer coming-of-age series became a global success.
Based on Alice Oseman’s popular graphic novels, the Netflix adaptation was announced in January 2021 before its first season premiered in April 2022.
Starring Kit Connor and Joe Locke as Nick Nelson and Charlie Spring, the series quickly turned both actors into international stars while winning over audiences with its tender depiction of a young gay romance.
After three successful seasons, Nick and Charlie’s story will conclude in the upcoming film Heartstopper Forever.
The film follows the couple as they prepare for the next stage of their lives at university and consider whether their relationship can survive beyond secondary school.
“I think bittersweet is exactly the word I would use. It’s been such a beautiful experience the last five years. It’s been such a huge part of our lives and saying goodbye to something like that is always hard,” Connor tells Out.
Nick and Charlie’s Relationship Matures
After three seasons exploring Nick and Charlie falling in love, their relationship becomes more intimate in Heartstopper Forever.
Connor and Locke said they were pleased to bring a sex-positive approach to the film as their characters mature and become more confident in their relationship.
“I’m really happy with how the intimate scenes and the sex scenes came out. I think that they are really beautiful. They all serve the story in their own different ways. They each send their own message about where Nick and Charlie are. They showcase Nick and Charlie’s love. It’s just like any other scene that I prepare for in that we are trying to tell a story. It’s a nice feeling to be able to end it in a way that feels right,” Connor says.
The intimate scenes are not included only to show a more physical side of Nick and Charlie’s relationship.
They also address insecurities and personal struggles that have affected both characters throughout the series, allowing the film to explore how their bond has developed.
Joe Locke Reflects on Charlie’s Eating Disorder Storyline
Locke said he was particularly proud of how Heartstopper approached Charlie’s eating disorder and the care taken when portraying the issue.
“I think it’ll be the thing I’m most grateful for my whole life, to be a part of this. Especially with the eating disorder storyline, that was something that we really wanted to make sure we did with as much care as possible to people who’ve suffered. I’m very proud that we haven’t shied away from those things in the show and in the movie as well,” Locke says.
Across its three seasons, Heartstopper became a major pop culture phenomenon and helped expand LGBTQ+ representation in television aimed at younger audiences.
The series has resonated with viewers around the world, with many fans saying it helped them feel more comfortable with their identities, come out to loved ones and find support within their chosen families.
Stars Hope More Queer Stories Follow
Although Nick and Charlie’s story is drawing to a close, Connor and Locke remain grateful for the impact the series has had.
They also hope Heartstopper’s success will help create more opportunities for queer stories and characters across film and television.
“It’s amazing to be a part of a show that matters to people. It’s made me more and more excited for queer shows and queer media to take the place of Heartstopper as well,” Connor concludes.
