TV Show Review: Heartstopper

First and foremost, I would like to thank the TikTok edit of Kit Connor chewing gum that made me start “Heartstopper”.

I was hooked by the first episode, which follows Charlie Spring, Nick Nelson and their queer friend group on the first day back to school after Christmas Break. Charlie is assigned to sit by Nick, a boy in the grade level above him and they begin a friendship. Nick is this attractive masculine rugby player, so no one thinks to question that he is anything other than straight, even himself.

As Nick and Charlie get closer to each other they develop romantic feelings and soon begin dating. While Nick is figuring out his sexuality, Charlie is patient and holds his hand the entire time. Nick goes through some adorable and funny bi panic before he realizes that he is bisexual.

“Heartstopper” has bisexual, trans, gay and asexual characters. This show feels like a big hug to the queer community. There is so much representation for queer kids and adults. The best part is that none of the representation feels forced or unnatural which seems to be common among British media.

I am so happy that the younger generation has this positive representation of young queer love. I couldn’t stop smiling throughout all the adorable moments between the different couples in the friend group.

Although, this is a cute teen romance the show does portray some serious topics such as heterosexism, bullying and more. These topics are shown in ways that aren’t very graphic or romanticized, which keeps the wholesome tone of the show.

I’ve seen comments online hating or making fun of cringey moments within “Heartstopper”, but I find them realistic in a show about teenagers. The most unrealistic thing about “Heartstopper” is how emotionally mature some of these teenagers are and the number of queer teachers.

“Heartstopper” is available on Netflix with currently two seasons consisting of eight 27–37-minute-long episodes.  This show is a very short watch that can be finished in a day. For a little more incentive to watch, the characters are also played by actual teenagers not actors pushing 30 years old.  

I will leave you with a disclaimer that post “Heartstopper” depression is real. The best way to combat this sadness is by watching edits on social media while diving into the graphic novels.