Netflix Unveils First Look at Queer Teen Romance “Heartstopper”

Full disclosure: I am a sucker for romance. And when it comes to romantic content, Netflix has got it in the bag. 

The streaming platform’s upcoming romantic series Heartstopper is set to be released this spring, and we recently got a first look at the show via a few promo stills. An adaptation of Alice Oseman’s webcomic and graphic novel of the same name, Heartstopper will follow the developing romance of the gentle, yet high-strung, type-A Charlie and a free-spirited, cheerful rugby player Nick. 

Boy meets boy. Boys become friends. Boys fall in love.

Here’s your first look at Heartstopper, an eight chapter story about life, love and everything in between based on the graphic novel by @AliceOseman. Premieres this Spring! pic.twitter.com/JDX64uALZT

— Netflix (@netflix) March 1, 2022

By showcasing the blossoming of a gay romance between two young men, Oseman stated it was important for her audience to “learn about the issues and tensions that young LGBTQ+ people face.” Oseman acknowledged the power of representation and how it can benefit non-queer people from understanding their queer loved ones and their journeys. “It’s through stories like this that straight and cis people can improve their empathy.”

i am so excited for heartstopper the series cause we get mlm, wlw and trans representation all in one show pic.twitter.com/ij1MBHnbdC

— jomi (@michjeda) March 1, 2022

“I’ve had so many people reach out to me saying, ‘It’s so nice to see someone like me in this comic just falling in love and having a cute little romance’, but also from people saying, ‘Nick’s journey has helped me come to terms with being bisexual’, and stuff like that. For me, that’s the most wonderful thing.”

The official synopsis best describes the tone of the show. “When gentle Charlie and rugby-loving Nick meet at secondary school, they quickly discover that their unlikely friendship is blossoming into an unexpected romance. Charlie, Nick, and their circle of friends must navigate the ever-relatable journey of self-discovery and acceptance, supporting each other as they learn to find their most authentic selves.”

Ugh, thank you, Netflix, for my feel-good fill.