Heartstopper's Kit Connor took to social media to reveal he is bisexual and slammed those who he says "forced" him to confirm his sexuality.
The actor, 18, shared the news on Twitter and slammed those involved, but was quick to receive support from his co-stars and the creator of the drama series.
Writing to his one million followers on Monday, the teen said: "back for a minute. i’m bi. congrats for forcing an 18 year old to out himself. i think some of you missed the point of the show. bye."
He had previously announced in September he was "bored" of the app so was deleting it, but had to make his return to make the announcement.
The hit Netflix series is based on the graphic novel by Alice Oseman and focuses on two male-presenting classmates who fall in love. In the drama, Connor stars as rugby player Nick, who is not officially out but finds himself clicking with Charlie, played by Joe Locke, who is openly gay.
Author Alice was quick to support Kit after his announcement, taking to the comments section of his post to praise him. She wrote: "I truly don’t understand how people can watch Heartstopper and then gleefully spend their time speculating about sexualities and judging based on stereotypes. I hope all those people are embarrassed as F**K. Kit you are amazing."
She wasn't the only person from the show to share their support, with Kizzy Edgell, who portray Darcy on-screen, writing; "i love u kit im sorry this has been so disgustingly rough on you. been treated so unfairly."
Fans were also quick to jump into the comments section, which had been 'liked over 420,000 times at the time of writing, in a bid to show Kit how the majority feel.
One follower commented: "heartstopper was the first thing to make me feel safe and accepted as a bisexual person, and seeing that hstwt bullied kit connor into coming out is absolutely gut wrenching. that’s the one thing that nick nelson was afraid of, and you’ve done it to the person who imbodied him."
Another wrote: "Sending you so much love Kit. breaks my heart to hear it’s come to this!"
And professional swimmer Michael Gunning added: "Reading tweets like this is heartbreaking… especially when Heartstopper taught so many people around the world the true value of someone’s personal coming out story. I’m so sorry you had this moment taken away from you Kit, but let’s hope people will learn from it!"
