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Writer's pictureLiz Triggs

Netflix hit Heartstopper Gives Queer Teens a Chance to Breathe



Credit: Netflix




Netflix’s new show Heartstopper, premiered in April 2022 and has since captured the heart of fans around the world. The show follows Charlie Spring, played by debuting actor Joe Locke, as he navigates friendship, love, and being openly gay at Truham School for Boys.



Queer teens can’t catch a break. In the midst of finding ourselves and the confusing nature of self-discovery, we face homophobia almost everywhere we turn and our rights are actively being stripped away. We look fo safe places to turn to, we beg for a little bit of comfort- a voice that says it will all be okay. Often times LGBTQ+ teens are left to deal with everything on their own. In addition. Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay Bill” has done a number on teens’ mental health and safety. The fear and sadness is inescapable.


Heartstopper premiered during a time in which it was needed the most. While queer representation has come a long way, most shows and movies showcase the same scenarios and are often times put together by a team of straight writers and directors. Heartstopper however, features an almost entirely queer cast including writers, directors, and producers. Real queer voices are behind this show, and it made a difference.


When Charlie Spring started falling for a seemingly straight classmate, I knew this was the show for me. It was something real, something I could relate to. Heartstopper hits on every single note of the teenage queer experience. It illustrates the highs such as falling in love and the freedom of figuring yourself out. Nick Nelson, another main character, thinks he’s straight. In fact, he’s pretty certain. And then Charlie comes along. And thus comes a beautiful depiction of self-discovery. In addition, the show also explores the not so fun side of school, friends, and battling your sexuality. Charlie, along with the show’s lesbian couple Tara and Darcy, face homophobia every day. The biggest difference between Heartstopper and other queer shows is the lighthearted nature of Heartstopper. Even when showing a lower or confusing experience, the show still maintains its buoyancy. That’s one of the main reasons why queer teens have found so much comfort in this show. It’s rare for a queer-centered show to have the intent of being light and happy.


LGBTQ+ teenagers have enough to worry about and struggle with. When it comes to queer media, the last thing we need is depressing and dark storylines. Heartstopper shows us that we can be happy, that not all parts of being a queer teenager sucks.

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