Heartstopper Creator Hints at 'Nasty' Problem for Nick in Season 2

Originally pitched as a teen drama, the hit Netflix show Heartstopper became popular with all age groups. With Nick (played by Kit Connor) coming into season 2 seemingly more comfortable in himself, though, the focus of the show may be shifting more towards acceptance of others.

Series creator Alice Oseman, who also wrote the graphic novels on which the show is based, told RadioTimes that, just as they did with season 1, they have 'slowed down the story' from the novels where 'everything happens so fast'.

TV is a different beast when it comes to telling the story and Oseman described how they wanted to 'lengthen the storylines' which requires 'more obstacles…to cross our characters' paths'.

Nick's nasty problem is pretty clear to most viewers already. Having accepted his own sexuality and kissed Charlie in season 1 – in a scene that has been nominated for the BAFTA for Most Memorable Moment – Nick is intent on coming out to the world.

But when reality hits, the question becomes one of how ready he really is to do so given the continual battle the people within the LGBTQ+ community face even in the 'progressive' UK.

Nick knows he's faced with some pretty unlikely allies close to home – his brother, his dad and most of his mates seem unlikely to stand by him. So, coming out to the world suddenly feels frightening and intimidating.

Naturally, Charlie (played by Joe Locke) will support Nick but, Oseman says, this could end up being a burden for Charlie – throwing teenage mental health issues into the mix.

It's a storyline that is bound to bring a lump to the throat and a tear to the eye. And will no doubt continue to grab viewers of all ages. Regardless of sexuality or gender, the whole coming-of-age and working yourself out aspect of the storyline is bound to resonate with large sections of the audience who are either going through it, remember going through it themselves, or have supported friends and family in similar situations.

Oseman recognises this and said, 'There are so many reasons why people of any age might enjoy a story like Heartstopper, whether it's the queer romance, the coming-of-age plotlines, the explorations of mental health, or something else entirely.'

But they are also aware that the LGBTQ+ element of the story makes it even more relevant owing to the stigma that was (and in some cases continues to be) attached to recognising your true self in a society that is not always supportive.

'In the UK right now, LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly under threat', said Oseman, 'particularly trans rights', adding that the popularity of Heartsopper 'tells the world that queer love and queer identity is something to be celebrated.'

Source: RadioTimes.