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Kit Connor and Joe Locke: 'Heartstopper' film is vital for queer representation
🇬🇧 United Kingdom /Culture & Society

Kit Connor and Joe Locke: 'Heartstopper' film is vital for queer representation

From BBC News · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth From a news agency Context piece
  • Actors Kit Connor and Joe Locke emphasize the enduring importance of their show "Heartstopper" in promoting queer joy and representation.
  • The series, which explores themes of mental health and difficult family dynamics, is concluding with a film installment.
  • Both actors, who also serve as producers, reflect on the show's profound impact on their lives and careers.

Actors Kit Connor and Joe Locke, stars of the popular Netflix series "Heartstopper," are reflecting on the show's significant impact as it concludes with a film installment. They stressed the vital role the series plays in showcasing queer joy and representation, particularly in a world where LGBTQ+ rights face challenges.

making a show or film like Heartstopper will forever be important

— Kit ConnorEmphasizing the lasting significance of the series.

Connor highlighted the importance of on-screen representation, stating, "making a show or film like Heartstopper will forever be important," regardless of global political climates. The series, set in the fictional English town of Truham, features a key scene centered around Pride celebrations, offering audiences a glimpse of queer community and acceptance.

"Heartstopper" has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of complex issues, including eating disorders, mental health struggles, alcohol dependency, and challenging family dynamics. Locke and Connor, who have taken on producer roles for the final chapter, aimed to ensure these storylines were handled with care, acting as creative voices for the cast.

Heartstopper in its very existence has [always] been this beautiful and powerful message about queer joy and humanity.

— Kit ConnorDescribing the core message of the show.

Connor, who publicly came out as bisexual after speculation surrounding the show's first season in 2022, described "Heartstopper" as a "beautiful and powerful message about queer joy and humanity." He noted that the characters "happen to be queer and incredibly happy about it, living their lives in the way they want to."

These characters happen to be queer and incredibly happy about it, living their lives in the way they want to.

— Kit ConnorHighlighting the positive portrayal of queer characters.

Both actors acknowledged the profound personal and professional impact of the series. Locke described it as "the biggest thing that will ever happen to any of us," while Connor expressed his deep value for Locke as a friend and collaborator. The show's conclusion marks a significant milestone for the cast and its dedicated fanbase.

changed my life in pretty much every way

— Joe LockeReflecting on the personal impact of the show.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by BBC News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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