‘Heartstopper’ Season 2 Review: A Profoundly Gorgeous, Agonizing Chapter Of Netflix’s Vital Gay Rom-Com

I lost track of how many times tears welled in my eyes while watching the second season of Heartstopper, Netflix’s beloved adaptation of Alice Oseman’s graphic novels. From scenes so joyous that my cheeks physically ached from extended grinning to serious, gut-wrenching moments thick with tension, Season 2 takes viewers on a relentless emotional roller coaster, leaving them changed for the better after the ride.

When we left our precious protagonists in Season 1, star rugby player Nick Nelson (Kit Connor) had just come out as bisexual to his mom (Olivia Colman), and he and his out, gay crush Charlie Spring (Joe Locke) planned to tell others about their budding romance. At the start of Season 2, the smitten teens are officially dating, but with their relationship still largely a secret, Nick spends the eight half-hour episodes navigating how to come out to friends, classmates, and family members, while Charlie is preoccupied with protecting him from the same pressure, stress, and fear he felt when he was outed.

As the two best friends test the limits of their safe, intimate bubble, Locke and Connor’s chemistry, both physical and emotional, has never been stronger. The early days of dating — captured in an accelerated montage that will make you squeal in delight — show regular visits to each other’s houses, passionate kisses, and an exciting string of firsts. In pursuit of unattainable perfection, Charlie remains as sweet, patient, considerate, and selfless as ever. But despite his best efforts, cruel realities of ignorance and homophobia creep in, resurfacing past trauma and insecurities while taking tolls on both him and Nick.

Anyone familiar with Connor’s public coming out — when fans accused the actor of queerbaiting after Season 1’s release and he responded by tweeting, “I’m bi. Congrats for forcing an 18-year-old to out himself. I think some of you missed the point of the show” — will find heartbreaking parallels in Nick’s Season 2 journey; another reminder of Heartstopper‘s essential space on television. As the season progresses and Nick becomes overwhelmed with a growing list of worries, his gentle, even-tempered nature proves essential in diffusing high-stress situations. Through all the lows, family drama, physical distance, and challenges at school, he and Charlie summon incredible courage. And the pair is more in tune than ever this time around, anticipating each other’s needs, radiating empathy at every opportunity, and exhibiting immense capacities for emotional intelligence that too many adults in this world lack.

While Season 2’s conflict gradually bubbles, intense introspection and internal conflict are palpable throughout, thanks to piercing performances from the talented cast, all of whom take their characters to new depths. Without spoiling too much, Elle (Yasmin Finney) and Tao’s (William Gao) high-stakes will-they-won’t-they relationship finally culminates as Elle pursues a prestigious art college that could take her to London. Tara (Corinna Brown) and Darcy (Kizzy Edgell) are going strong until personal problems beget unexpected obstacles. And Isaac (Tobie Donovan) makes an active effort to leave his comfort zone and embark on a crucial journey of self-exploration.

Amidst daunting schoolwork, a class trip to Paris, prom, and oodles of other formative experiences, Heartstopper’s fierce friendships are tested and ultimately strengthened. Several new characters join the cast, and faves like the adorable Imogen (Rhea Norwood) plus antagonists like Harry (Cormac Hyde-Corrin) and Ben (Sebastian Croft) — who gets a more extensive storyline that explores, but doesn’t quite forgive his transgressive acts from the previous season — return. As we see more of the characters’ home lives, Charlie’s older sister Tori (Jenny Walser) also sassily sips her way into our hearts.

Oseman undoubtedly explores darker themes in these eight episodes, but she never loses the magic of Season 1 or the show’s remarkable ability to quietly convey blaring thoughts and emotions. Charming animations continue to emphasize the kind of electric sparks and all-consuming butterflies that can spring from the slightest touch. The series absolutely nails digital communication and the strong presence social media has in teens’ lives. A word as simple as “hi” will still make you giddy. And visually, the season is a stunner. Paris provides the dreamiest backdrop for Heartstopper’s gorgeous cinematography and dazzling mood lighting, thanks to Euros Lyn, who returns to direct every episode of the season. Colorful set designs and fun fashion are accompanied by another bubbly soundtrack — featuring the 2023 right of passage, a Taylor Swift needle drop.

Thoughtful aesthetics and details only serve to enhance an already profound, beautiful, deeply important coming-of-age series that embraces, uplifts, and cares for LGBTQIA+ stories, while never shying away from the very real struggles the queer community faces today. If you adore these characters as much as I do, Heartstopper Season 2 is, at times, an excruciating watch. But regardless of tone and subject matter, scenes remain laced with love, and Oseman’s world is brimming with heartwarming, romantic, joyous moments that will make you melt.

Heartstopper Season 2 premieres on Netflix August 3, 2023.