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If you feel like the last 12 months has seen some of your favourite TV shows come to an end (think Succession, Uncoupled, and the Gossip Girl reboot) then fear not, because Heartstopper is returning to our screens.
Just over a year after the sweet coming-of-age dramedy won hearts around the globe for its beautiful representation of life as a teenager at school coming to grips with the world and one's sexuality, gender and relationships, it was renewed for a second (and third) a month after its debut. The series is based on the graphic novel and webcomic of the same name by Alice Oseman.
In one of its 'Returning Favourites' clips shared in June, Netflix released the opening scene of the sophomoric season, which sees Charlie (Joe Locke) and Nick (Kit Connor) texting as they get ready for school, before being reunited.
Netflix also released the episode names of the upcoming second season, which is based on the third book in Oseman's Heartstopper series:
Episode one – Out
Episode two – Family
Episode three – Promise
Episode four – Challenge
Episode five – Heat
Episode six – Truth/Dare
Episode seven – Sorry
Episode eight – Perfect
Here’s what you need to know about Heartstopper season two:
What is the Hearstopper season two release date?
Netflix announced that Heartstopper season two was already in production in September 2022, with the upcoming season hitting Netflix screens on Thursday, August 3.
Who is in the Hearstopper season two cast?
Protagonists Nick (Kit Connor) and Charlie (Joe Locke) will return for the eight-episode second season, as well as actors William Gao, Tobie Donovan, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Sebastian Croft, Rhea Norwood, Olivia Colman (Nick’s mother, Sarah), Jenny Walser, and former ELLE UK cover star Yasmin Finney.
Finney previously told us about her character Elle: ‘I admire Elle so much.' Opening up about her own experience as a trans woman, she added: 'I was bullied for being queer at my first high school. At the time I didn't know I was trans, but for Elle to know that she is and to move schools because of that is bravery on another level.’
However, there’s a roster of new actors joining the mix too, including actor Jack Barton, who will play Nick’s older brother, David Nelson, Nima Taleghani (as new schoolteacher Mr. Farouk), Call My Agent! star Thibault de Montalembert, and Bradley Riches. Leila Khan will also play Sahar Zahid after nabbing the role in an open call.
In November 2022, Netflix announced that TikTok sensation Bel Priestley would be joining the cast. ‘Heartstopper S2 news! Introducing Bel Priestley as Naomi,’ the streaming site tweeted.
Priestley reacted to the news, noting on Instagram: ‘Words can’t describe how grateful I am for this opportunity. Thank you to the entire Heartstopper crew & cast for making me feel so welcomed and supported.’
In February, the newcomer opened up a bit more about what fans can expect from her role.
‘I play a girl called Naomi, and I have a strong friendship with Elle,’ she revealed during a panel discussion during National Student Pride. ‘I think [it will] be really nice for everyone to see two trans girls conquering the world.’
The 19-year-old also opened up on TikTok about how the show is ‘breaking more boundaries’ second time around. ‘They’re reaching new audiences, and they’re looking at new things. I’ve seen the trailer, and I’ve watched [it], and it’s going to be amazing. I’m excited for everyone to see it,’ she added.
What will the Heartstopper season two plot be about?
Season two focussed on volumes one and two of the Heartstopper graphic novel series, so we’re expecting the next season will be adapted from volume three and see Nick and Charlie get to grips with their new relationship and embark on a school trip to Paris.
Netflix description of the second season reads: ‘Nick and Charlie navigate their new relationship; Tara and Darcy face unforeseen challenges and Tao and Elle work out if they can ever be more than just friends. With exams on the horizon, a school trip to Paris and a prom to plan, the gang has a lot to juggle as they journey through the next stages of life, love and friendship.’
Will there be a third season of Heartstopper?
Yes, Netflix previously announced we’re not only getting a second but a third series. ‘We were overjoyed with the global reaction to Heartstopper and can’t wait to continue the story with two more seasons. Watch this space!’ Oseman said at the time.
Is there a Heartstopper season two trailer?
Yes! At the beginning of July Netflix finally released a trailer for season two, and it looks like love is in the air for Charlie, Nick, Tara, Darcy, Elle and Tao during the friends' Paris trip.
Netflix previously released a sneak peek date announcement clip, which we’ve watched several times.
We also have some photos from the upcoming season (see above).
Hearstopper season two is out on Netflix on Thursday, August 3.
