Netflix has teased a first look at Heartstopper season 2 as Charlie, Nick and friends return to school for a new term.
Based on Alice Oseman’s best-selling graphic novels of the same name, the coming-of-age drama follows a friendship between Truham Grammar students Charlie, played by Joe Locke, and Nick, portrayed by Kit Connor, that blossoms into something more. The series has been praised for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ stories, including trans and bisexual characters and the challenges they face.
The first season proved a huge hit when it dropped in April last year and spent five weeks in the streamer’s top 10 shows in the UK. Fans have been patiently waiting for more news on the show, and Netflix this week confirmed exactly when Heartstopper would be returning.
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Its second season will see Charlie and Nick navigate their new relationship, while their friends Tara, Darcy, Tao and Elle face fresh difficulties in love and friendship. With a school trip to Paris, a prom to plan and exams looming, it's set to be a chaotic term for the teens.
New first-look photos show Nick and Charlie on a school trip, as well as Tara and Darcy looking cosy. Meanwhile Tao and Elle look loved-up on a romantic cinema date, complete with huge boxes of popcorn.
Olivia Coleman, Chetna Pandya and Alan Turkington are among the returning cast, as Nick's mum Sarah, Coach Singh and Mr Lange respectively. Author Alice Oseman continues as screenwriter for the series.
In a behind the scenes video, the actors chat about what's next for their characters. Manchester's very own Yasmin Finney plays transgender student Elle, who was the target of bullies and moved from Truham - a school for boys - to a new high school following her transition.
In the video, Yasmin reveals her character becomes 'more confident' in the new season, surrounding herself with 'people that elevate her.'
Here is all we know so far about Heartstopper season 2.
When will season 2 drop?
Netflix confirmed that Heartstopper season 2 will be released on Thursday, August 3.
Kit said of the upcoming season: "Alice has got some amazing scripts for us... it feels cool and fresh." He adds that overall, it’s 'just a different vibe to Season 1.'
Season 2 is based on volume 3 of the graphic novels
Dedicated Heartstopper fans will have already read all four volumes of the graphic novel series. The most recent release, volume four, came out last year.
While the first season was based on volumes one and two of the comics, Alice told website Netflix Tudum that this season is based on volume 3. She added: “We had a good foundation. But there’s not enough in the book to take a whole season of TV, so there had to be a lot of creation of new stuff.”
New cast members
New students and teachers alike are gearing up for a fresh term in season 2. More of Nick's Nick’s family will also be introduced, with Jack Barton as Nick’s older brother, David, and Thibault de Montalembert as Nick’s father, Stephane.
Bel Priestley, who is currently starring in Disney+ series A Small Light, will play Naomi and Ash Self is Felix, both friends of Elle.
Leila Khan will join as student Sahar Zahid, while Nima Taleghani is Truham teacher Mr. Farouk. Bradley Riches, who played a Truham student in Season 1, will also return as James McEwan.
Season 2 won't be the end
There will be even more drama to come, as Heartstopper season three has already been commissioned.
Executive producer Patrick Walters previously told Netflix Tudum: “We put so much love into the making of Heartstopper so to reassemble the team for two more seasons is a dream come true. I’m forever grateful to Alice Oseman for entrusting us with this beautiful, unique story that at its core seeks to uplift the next generation of young LGBTQ+ people. Stay tuned!”
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