CW: This review contains sensitive content, including mention of self-harm, eating disorders and homophobia.

Created after the Webtoon Comics created by illustrator and author Alice Oseman, the third season of “Heartstopper” is out now for all romance lovers to binge-watch. The comics, originally created in August 2019, tells the story of two British boys who fall for each other. Season three of the show, estimated to be the darkest — and steamiest — is out now on Netflix. Here’s the rundown. 

When Oseman created “Heartstopper,” they aimed to form a safe space for LGBTQ+ communities by creating transgender, lesbian, bisexual, asexual and gay characters, among others. 

Now, the third season highlights all the storylines we’ve been waiting for since season two premiered in August 2023.  Strong feelings and predictions accompanied the release of the season three trailer on Sept. 17. In addition, anyone familiar with the comics likely knows the storyline, or at the very least, what happens with Nick Nelson, played by Kit Connor and Charlie Spring, played by Joe Locke. 

Before I dive into the third season, let me catch you up on the past two seasons that emphasize Nick and Charlie’s romance in an increasingly welcoming, but nonetheless homophobic environment. Nick struggles to come out as bisexual to his friends and family, while Charlie struggles with an eating disorder. Season three touches on this as well, but on a deeper level. In addition, Tao Xu and Elle Argent, played by William Gao and Yasmin Finney, explore their new relationship, as Tara and Darcy, played by Corinna Brown and Kizzy Edgell, strengthen their own. 

More than anything, season three seems to be more in tune with love than the other seasons, whether that be with the “Paris Squad,” or within each of the characters’ relationships. Furthermore, the season starts right where it left off in season two where Charlie wants to tell Nick that he loves him. 

Maturity is seen in characters like Charlie, Darcy and Tao. In addition, Isaac Henderson, played by Tobie Donovan, matures in the realization of his own sexuality. Oseman also explores the relationship between Imogen Heaney, played by Rhea Norwood, and Sahar Zahid, played by Leila Khan. The season is more mature in general, highlighting more intense themes such as self-harm and eating disorders. 

While the show omits the youngest Spring child, season three captures a closer relationship between Charlie and Tori, played by Jenny Walser. While the last two seasons see Tori being a protective older sister, we see their relationship flourish into something really beautiful. It also makes me wish I wasn’t an only child.

Speaking of close familial relationships, Nick’s mom, played by Olivia Colman, is absent from the screen. In season one, viewers see Nick come out to his mom, and he’s accepted with open arms. Unfortunately, this support is not actively seen on screen, due to Colman’s busy schedule. She noted in an interview with Forbes, “I couldn’t do number three. I couldn’t fit it in.” However, Colman added that “Heartstopper” was one of the most beautiful things she’s been part of. As a sort of replacement, Hayley Atwell steps in as Nick’s aunt, Diane, who gives him a bit of relationship advice. 

Other guest stars this season include Darragh Hand, who plays Tori’s love interest, Michael Holden. Jonathan Bailey (who you might know as Anthony in Bridgerton) also steps in as one of Charlie’s favorite authors, Jack Maddox. 

Another important detail in the minds of “Heartstopper” viewers is the music associated with the show’s soundtrack. Oseman recently shared playlists they created for Nick and Charlie in an Instagram post. It’s likely there wouldn’t be so many goosebumps in the show if it weren’t for the perfectly selected soundtrack. You can listen to them now on Spotify.

While viewers watch season three, they’re sure to notice that episode four is the heaviest of the eight. These darker themes are followed closely through both Nick’s and Charlie’s perspectives. Most fans who are familiar with the storyline were sure to shed tears while watching it. 

Oseman’s main focus in creating “Heartstopper” was to encapsulate the feelings that LGBTQ+ youth may experience throughout their formative years. They are currently working on a new batch of comics after being on a creative hiatus. With season four on the horizon, Nick, Charlie and the rest of the gang will be on viewer’s minds until another release. 

Edited by Alyssa Royston | aroyston@themaneater.com

Copy edited by Claire Bauer and Natalie Kientzy | nkientzy@themaneater.com 

Edited by Emilia Hansen | ehansen@themaneater.com

Edited by Annie Goodykoontz | agoodykoontz@themaneater.com