A first look at Heartstopper’s highly anticipated season two has revealed exciting new storylines, as well as the return of beloved characters.
The first season of the heartwarming LGBTQ+ coming-of-age show was released in April 2022 to critical acclaim, bringing stars Kit Connor (Nick Nelson) and Joe Locke (Charlie Spring) into the spotlight.
And on Wednesday, Netflix released six new images for the show’s second season, eight episodes of which will be available to stream starting August 3.
The sneak peak shows lovebirds Nick and Charlie getting romantic on a school trip to Paris, while Tao and Elle appear to be on a date to the movies, suggesting romance is blossoming between them this season.
Meanwhile, Tara and Darcy are also photographed getting cozy – but although Tara stares lovingly at her partner, Darcy appears to be looking into the distance, suggesting tension may be building in the relationship.
First look: Nick and Charlie get romantic on a school trip to Paris in season two of Heartstopper, which airs August 3 on Netflix
Budding Romance: Meanwhile, Tao and Elle seem to be making progress in their relationship as they go on a trip to the movies
Isaac, who had a small role in the first season despite being in the main friendship group, is pictured in the library, suggesting the new season can focus more on his storyline.
Alongside the news, Netflix tweeted, “Here’s your first look at Heartstopper S2!!!” alongside the show’s signature leaf emojis.
The official synopsis for the packed new season reads: ‘Nick and Charlie navigate their new relationship; Tara and Darcy face unforeseen challenges, and Tao and Elle explore whether they could ever be more than just friends.
“With exams coming up, 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.”
In the first season, Charlie fell in love with his popular classmate Nick at Truham Grammar School for boys.
While they are just friends at first, their chemistry is undeniable and they grow closer as Nick tries to figure things out.
Author Alice Oseman spoke radio times about season two, revealing, “This season, Nick wants to come out into the world, but faced with his annoying brother, his mostly-absent father, and his female buddies, he soon finds it’s not as easy as he initially thought.”
‘Unforeseen challenges’: Tara and Darcy, who grew stronger in the first season, may face new tensions in their relationship
Sneak peak: Isaac, who had a small role in the first season despite being in the main friendship group, is pictured in the library, suggesting the new season may focus on his storyline
Heartthrob: Kit Connor returns as Nick Nelson, a popular but likable character at Truham Grammar
Fresh start: In the first season, Charlie fell in love with his popular classmate Nick
News: Netflix released six exclusive new images on Wednesday, hinting at new storylines
Previously, Alice revealed that the show would focus on asexuality in season two.
She told Attitude magazine, “I’m both Ace and Aro. Those words mean little to no sexual attraction or little to no romantic attraction.
“Netflix will hate me for the spill, but yes, asexuality will be discussed in a really big way. I’m excited. I hope it will change the world. It is complicated to understand something about yourself. People ask the wrong questions.’
Joining the cast for the second series are TikTok’s Bel Priestley as Naomi, Ash Self as Felix, as well as Thibault de Montalembert as Stephane.
Success: The global Netflix hit is based on the Alice Oseman comic series
In addition, Leila Khan will join as student Sahar Zahid, Jack Barton as Nick’s older brother David, Bradley Riches as student James McEwan and Nima Taleghani as teacher Mr Farouk.
All of the main characters from the first series also return, including appearances by Olivia Coleman and Stephen Fry, who featured in a voiceover as Truham Grammar’s headmaster.
The eight-part show has already been renewed for two seasons, and the upcoming second series is also expected to focus heavily on Charlie’s eating disorder.
Executive Producer Patrick Walkers said, “It has been an absolute privilege to continue the story of Nick, Charlie and the rest of the Heartstopper gang for Season 2.
“Alice Oseman and I have been able to watch the actors evolve their performances in every way possible, and this season is so emotional because of their amazing work. Get ready!’
Fans raved about the preview, with one tweeting, “Omg! My comforters are coming back!’ while another said, “Thanks Netflix. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You have no idea how much I needed this.’
Season two of Heartstopper premieres on Netflix on August 3.