Heartstopper fans who simply can’t wait until October 3 to see Nick and Charlie again, you’re in luck — Netflix has just released the official first look photos for Season 3.
The third season of the teen drama, which is based on the bestselling graphic novel series by Alice Oseman, will follow boyfriends Nick (Kit Connor) and Charlie (Joe Locke) as they navigate a more mature relationship — this season is slated to tackle mental illness, sex, university applications, possible “I love you” declarations, and more.
“Season 2 ended with Nick beginning to understand the extent of Charlie’s mental health issues, and it’s this that will drive the story through Season 3,” Oseman told Netflix. “While Heartstopper will always celebrate the joyful and point towards hope, I’m really excited that we are allowing the tone of the show to mature alongside our beloved characters growing up.”
Charlie’s mental health is expected play a major role in Season 3. In the books, he’s diagnosed with an eating disorder and OCD. He also attends therapy and goes to an in-patient treatment center for some time.
“It’s definitely a more grown-up season,” Locke said in an interview with Deadline in May. “We deal with darker issues; Charlie’s mental health is a big focus. And it’s still Heartstopper, so there’s always the light at the end of the tunnel, which is a really great way of dealing with issues like that.”
Additionally, Netflix just revealed a big surprise: Oliver, Charlie, and Tori’s (Jenny Walser) little brother in the books, will be in Season 3. However, there’s a twist — instead of appearing as their brother, he’ll have a smaller role as their cousin; Jensen Clayden (Eastenders) will play the “small but festive” role.
Other exciting new additions for the upcoming season include Hayley Atwell (Agent Carter, Black Mirror) as Nick’s Aunt Diane and Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers) as Charlie’s celebrity crush, Jack Maddox. Olivia Colman, who plays Nick’s mom, will not be in Season 3 due to scheduling conflicts; Sebastian Croft (Ben) will also be absent.
Check out the official first look images for Season 3 below:
Heartstopper Season 3 premieres on Netflix October 3.