‘Heartstopper’ Season 3: Everything You Need to Know, Including the Cast, Release Date & More

*Warning: Minor season 2 spoilers ahead*

PSA: Nick and Charlie are making a comeback in Heartstopper season three—although I can't say I’m too surprised.

The Netflix rom-com, which is based on Alice Oseman's graphic novels and webcomic of the same name, has been praised by critics for its charming cast and positive representation of trans and queer teens. (Just check out the rave reviews on Rotten Tomatoes.) Plus, several cast members have spoken out about why it's such a major hit.

Yasmin Finney, who plays Elle on the series, told Independent, “I think Heartstopper has struck a chord because of the simple fact that trans people didn’t have representation growing up. And even if you’re not queer, it’s just nice to be able to see some positive, youthful, wholesome content. Whether you’re queer or not, it’s a world of positivity and escapism, which I think a lot of people need—especially with the tough time that we’re in.”

Fortunately for fans, there's a new chapter on the horizon, and Netflix has already teased a few updates, from the cast (including Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey) and plot to the release date. Keep reading for all the details on Heartstopper season three.

In May 2022—just a month after the premiere of season one—Netflix confirmed that the coming-of-age series has been renewed for not one, but two seasons. On Twitter, Netflix announced, "[Two] more seasons of Heartstopper!" The tweet also included a shot of Oseman proudly holding up a sketch of Nick and Charlie.

In a follow-up tweet, which includes footage of the author creating the sketch, Netflix added, "Can't wait for @AliceOseman and co. to do even more wonderful things with these characters!"

Naturally, the cast was thrilled to share the good news with fans. On Instagram, Joe Locke shared some behind-the-scenes photos and wrote, "HOW MANY MORE SEASONS???," along with peace sign emojis. Finney also followed suit by sharing snaps with her cast mates and a few original sketches from the webcomic. She wrote, "[Two] More Seasons Plz."

Netflix further celebrated the show’s third season in March 2024, when it released a brand-new video featuring behind-the-scenes footage. 

“The positive reaction from season two has really boosted all of our confidence,” one cast member says in the clip. “I can’t wait for you guys to see.”

In September 2023, Netflix gave fans a glimpse of the script for the first episode, which is fittingly called "Love." They captioned the pic, "Heartstopper Season 3. Episode 1. Love. That’s all we can tell you for now—but we’ll be back, as will Nick and Charlie."

Oseman hasn't revealed any plot details, but she did release a statement confirming that fans of her work already know what to expect. She said, “People who have read the comics will know what’s going to happen, but I don’t want to spoil it for people who haven’t been reading the comics. I think [season two’s ending] just sets up that conversation for next season. We know that Charlie loves Nick, and I think we know that Nick loves Charlie as well. It’s just about when and how they’re going to say that to each other.”

The writer also told Metro that mental health will be a big theme. She said, “In season two, we started to explore mental health in a big way, and I think it’s pretty obvious from the way we leave the season that is going to be a big element of season three. We’re going to continue to look at that in a big way and explore how that affects Nick and Charlie’s relationship, and all of the other friendships in the show.”

In November 2023, Oseman made the announcement on Instagram and wrote, "Now some of you already figured this out, but for those who didn't, we're thrilled to be welcoming Darragh Hand as Michael Holden to the Heartstopper family for S3!"

The post includes behind-the-scenes pics of Hand posing alongide Walser, who plays Tori (Michael's girlfriend and Charlie's sister). Oseman contined, "As well as appearing in the Heartstopper graphic novels, Michael— along with Tori—is one of the main characters of my first ever novel, Solitaire. So I was very nervous and excited to begin the search for our Michael! Michael is a quirky, eccentric optimist with a sunshine disposition, and it was a challenge to find someone who I felt truly channelled Michael from the books. But then Darragh came along and warmed our hearts, made us all laugh so much, and perfectly complimented Jenny Walser’s Tori Spring. I can’t wait for you to meet Michael in season 3!"

That’s correct. In April 2024, Netflix confirmed that the Bridgerton star will portray Charlie’s crush, Jack Maddox. The streaming service announced the exciting news on Instagram and wrote, “I’ve got someone i’d like you to say hi to... jonathan bailey is joining HEARTSTOPPER season 3 for a cameo as jack maddox, charlie’s ig famous crush.”

He will be joined by fellow newcomers Haley Atwell (Captain America: The First Avenger) and Eddie Marsan (Ray Donovan).

Well, no—but it's not because they haven't started. As it turns out, the third season has already completed filming, which means it won't be too long before the cast graces my screen again.

In December 2023, just two months after production officially began, Netflix tweeted a photo of Oseman holding a colorful slate while posing alongside Connor and Locke. The streaming platform captioned the pic, "And that is officially a wrap on Heartstopper Season 3."

The trailer begins with a voiceover from Isaac teasing what’s to come. “Sixteen is when nothing makes sense anymore,” he says. The clip also confirms the continuation of ongoing story lines, like Elle’s intimacy woes and Charlie’s eating disorder.

“Charlie, I’m really worried about you,” Nick tells him. 

Oh, and did I mention the trailer offers a sneak peek at Bailey’s new character?