Heartstopper fans are rightly calling out what they describe as a 'sickening' response to the new film trailer for the beloved series. As anticipation builds for the finale, some online users have sparked outrage by focusing on the sexual aspects of the teenage characters.
The Controversial Comments
In response to the trailer for Heartstopper Forever, one user on X wrote, 'Do they f**k or no,' while another replied, 'Right like I watched it and I wasn't even turned on once.' These remarks have been widely condemned as inappropriate, given that the characters Nick and Charlie are teenagers.
Other viewers issued stern reminders that the series is not intended to be hypersexualized. 'It's a teen series, there will be mentions of sex and some happening sometimes, but it's not the focus. It's about the living of a queer teen group, going through mental problems, coming out, family issues, relationship problems, etc. Not EVERYTHING in life needs to be about sex,' wrote @kinho_here.
Heartstopper's Impact
Created by graphic novelist Alice Oseman, Heartstopper was adapted for Netflix in 2022 and quickly achieved roaring success. The series has since topped streaming charts with millions of views, and cast members like Kit Connor and Joe Locke have built successful international careers.
The upcoming film, Heartstopper Forever, set for release on July 17, wraps up the story of Nick and Charlie as they navigate more mature challenges. The trailer, soundtracked by Olivia Rodrigo's new single Stupid Song, teases their biggest tests yet, including separation anxiety and self-discovery.
Defending the Show's Purpose
Many fans have pointed out that reducing the show to its sexual content is disrespectful to the LGBTQ+ community, who have found comfort in Heartstopper after growing up without positive representation. 'Why do you guys want to see teenagers f**k so badly?' asked @xofreyr, while @Cristian212004 noted an 'obsession' with explicit scenes in queer media.
In contrast to other queer series like Heated Rivalry or Red, White & Royal Blue, which feature more explicit content, Heartstopper is character-driven, focusing on emotional intimacy and personal growth. The show has become a 'blueprint' for future queer media, with its impact expected to outlast any quickie sex scenes.
Actors Kit Connor and Joe Locke have praised the show's 'natural evolution,' noting that it was 'exciting' to watch Nick and Charlie progress from hiding love bites to bonding on a deeper level. Heartstopper Forever will be available on Netflix on July 17.
