It's hard to believe Heartstopper is coming to an end.
Based on the hit book series, Netflix picked up the adorable queer story back in January 2021 with the first season premiering in April 2022. Starring Kit Connor and Joe Locke, the handsome actors became overnight sensations as they depict Nick and Charlie's magical gay romance.
After three successful seasons, Nick and Charlie's on-screen relationship will get a happy ending in the new film Heartstopper Forever. As the boys gear up for the next chapter of their lives in college, they must decide if their bond can survive past high 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.
Now that Nick and Charlie have had three full seasons of falling in love, the chemistry between the cute characters steps up a notch in Heartstopper Forever. Both Connor and Locke were excited to bring more sex positivity to the screen as the couple matures 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 intimacy scenes not only depict some sexier moments between Nick and Charlie, but they also help break down significant insecurities seen in both characters throughout the first three seasons.
"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.
Heartstopper is an undeniable pop culture phenomenon that broke barriers for LGBTQ+ representation, especially among young adults. Fans around the world are celebrating the skin they're in, coming out to their loved ones, and finding their identities alongside members of their chosen family.
Although this chapter has come to a close, the stars are grateful to have worked on a project that has opened doors for more gay storylines to be portrayed in Hollywood.
"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.
Heartstopper Forever premieres Friday, July 17, on Netflix. To see the full interview with Joe Locke and Kit Connor, check out the video at the top of the page.
