Courtesy of Netflix
Heartstopper season 1 was a joyous and warm celebration of queer love — and fans can’t wait to see what happens next.
Netflix renewed the show for two more seasons, just under a month after the premiere of season 1 in April 2022. Based on Alice Oseman's comics of the same name, season 1 followed volumes 1 and 2 of the graphic novel. Season 2, set to premiere on Thursday, August 3, will explore the third comic in the series. Showrunner Alice Oseman contemplated the question of what happens when one comes out. Kit Connor and Joe Locke portray the beloved couple Nick and Charlie in the Netflix hit, with Yasmin Finney, William Gao, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Sebastian Croft, Tobie Donovan, Rhea Norwood, and Jenny Walser completing the cast.
"Charlie never believed that Nick would reciprocate his feelings, but now they are officially in a relationship as boyfriends. In a bold move, Nick has even disclosed his sexual orientation to his mother. However, coming out is not a one-time event, and Nick and Charlie must navigate the decision of when to reveal their relationship to their friends," states the official synopsis for Season 2. "Being secretive about their relationship becomes even more challenging during a school trip to Paris. As Nick and Charlie's emotions deepen, their reliance on each other becomes increasingly crucial." While Heartstopper addresses a range of topics with varying tones, such as mental health and first kisses, one aspect that the show emphasizes is the authentic representation of as many members of the LGBTQIA+ community as possible.
"We have made a sincere effort to prioritize inclusivity and diversity, recognizing that individual life experiences vary," Connor shared with Entertainment Weekly in May 2022. "Our primary goal was to authentically depict these differences and establish a secure environment for the LGBTQ+ community in particular."
Don't miss the premiere of Heartstopper season 2 on Netflix, airing on Thursday, August 3.
Keep scrolling for the five things we need most from Heartstopper season 2:
Charlie And Nick Telling Everyone They’re Dating
In Season 1, Charlie and Nick formed a relationship, and Nick took the brave step of coming out to his mother, Olivia Colman. Fans are eagerly anticipating Season 2 to witness the couple navigate the challenges of sharing their relationship with their friends, the school community, and Charlie's parents. Although the journey might be complex, we have faith that these two can conquer any obstacle hand in hand.
The Paris Trip — And Nick Speaking French
The City of Love school trip has become a beloved event among fans and is highly anticipated in the second season. From witnessing the gang strolling through Paris to engaging in a lively game of Truth or Dare, this adventure promises a delightful mix of drama, laughter, and romance.
Kit Connor. Courtesy of Netflix
"The Truth or Dare scene perfectly captures the essence of the comics, and I wrote it a while ago. It's surreal to witness it brought to life," Oseman revealed in a July 2022 interview for Netflix's Tudum.
Locke added that the scenes were intentionally crafted to resemble actual comic panels. "Our director, Euros Lyn, and DP, Simona Susnea, constantly seek opportunities to replicate shots that resemble comic panels. It's always amazing to witness," he expressed during the same interview.
Another highlight of spending time by the Eiffel Tower? Getting to see Charlie be impressed by Nicke’s ability to speak fluent French.
Tao and Elle Navigating Their Relationship
Elle has revealed her feelings for Tao to her friends towards the end of season 1. However, the question remains whether these friends and potential lovers will be able to resolve their feelings. In the season 2 trailer, the pair can be seen deliberating on whether they should take the next step, leaving fans eagerly anticipating a potential kiss between them.
"There were so many people who approached me, wondering why they didn't kiss in the season 1 cliffhanger," said Finney, hinting at the upcoming developments. "Our showrunner, Alice, is incredibly clever for leaving the audience craving for more. Rest assured, this season will not disappoint."
A Closer Look at Charlie’s Mental Health
Although not explicitly addressed in season 1, Charlie's mental health challenges were subtly implied, suggesting the existence of underlying struggles. In the comic series, the character battles an ongoing eating disorder, which aligns with the scene in season 1 where he intensely gazes at his cereal, letting it turn soggy. However, the lingering question remains: will this aspect be further explored in season 2?
Joe Locke. Samuel Dore/Netflix
What Happens With Tara and Darcy — And Isaac’s Love Life
Despite the lack of clarity regarding Charlie's mental state in the season 2 trailer, there is a noticeable sense of determination on his part to maintain a flawless dynamic with Nick. This hints at the possibility that their relationship may not be as effortless as it appears.
In the world of will-they-wont-they romances in season 1, Tara and Darcy stood out as the envy-inducing stable couple. Fans hoped to witness their continued happiness in love, but the season 2 trailer suggests trouble may be on the horizon when Tara declares her love and Darcy's response seems hesitant.
Viewers are also eager to delve deeper into the character of Isaac, who is adapted from Aled in the comics. His sexuality will be explored in season 2, adding an intriguing layer to his story.
"[His story line] is currently not being shown on TV at all," Donovan playfully commented to Netflix in July 2022 regarding Isaac's second season journey. "It feels like there is a substantial amount of weight and pressure, but it's a positive kind of weight and pressure. It's motivating me to give my utmost effort instead of being terrified by it."