Netflix's Heartstopper is a beloved series that has impressed viewers with its blend of love, companionship, and an uplifting vibe. Charlie Spring, played by the charming Joe Locke, is a sweet, openly gay student navigating the highs and lows of high school. Enter Nick Nelson, the dashing rugby player portrayed by Kit Connor, who questions his feelings as their friendship ignites into something more.
In season 1, the show captured the thrill and nerves of young love while dealing with school drama and societal hurdles. Season 2 takes things up a notch, diving deeper into the rollercoaster of their relationship, exploring family dynamics, and tackling the pressure of public perceptions.
With a stellar supporting cast, including Corinna Brown as the ever-supportive Tara and Kizzy Edgell as the vibrant Darcy, Heartstopper is a celebration of authenticity and connection.
Season 3 of this coming-of-age show which is set to premiere in October and will have all 8 episodes dropping on the same day, fans are very excited and anticipating the return of the charming Joe Locke; who is also going to be making an appearance in the new Disney+ show Agatha All Along. If the wait is too long, the following are the 7 best shows to watch before Heartstopper season 3 releases.
Sex Education, Heartbreak High, and 5 other shows to watch until the season 3 release of Heartstopper
1) Sex Education
In the vibrant and entertaining world of Sex Education, teenage life is far from ordinary. Asa Butterfield does a superb job portraying Otis Milburn, a socially awkward high school student with a mother who is a sex therapist. Otis teams up with Maeve Wiley, portrayed by Emma Mackey.
They develop a strong attachment as they run a discreet sex ed clinic in response to peers seeking guidance, delving into themes of sexuality, self-discovery, and friendship with a diverse and relatable group. Like Heartstopper, Sex Education explores the intricacies of teenage life, appealing to fans of profound narratives.
The show is streaming on Netflix
2) Never Have I Ever
Never Have I Ever is an American coming-of-age comedy series that follows Devi Vishwakumar, played by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan. Devis is a first-generation Indian American teenager navigating her complicated love life, family, and high school experiences. Devi's life takes a turn after her father's sudden death which leaves her struggling to cope with grief and societal expectations.
The show is a beautiful representation of a teenager’s chaotic life, as Devi makes one bad decision after another. Fans of Heartstopper will enjoy Never Have I Ever as both shows delve into the challenges of adolescence.
Never Have I Ever is available on Netflix.
3) Heartbreak High
Heartbreak High is a must-watch Australian comedy-drama on Netflix that dives deep into the tumultuous lives of Hartley High students. When a scandalous mural revealing everyone’s secret hook-ups is discovered, its creator, Amerie Wadia, played by Ayesha Madon, finds herself at the center of a social storm.
As she grapples with the fallout, Amerie must also navigate her personal struggles and friendships. Much like Heartstopper, this series offers a rich tapestry of diverse characters and significant LGBTQ+ storylines, set against the relatable backdrop of high school life.
4) Euphoria
Euphoria is an American teen drama series that tackles issues of addiction, trauma, and mental health. This show boasts a star cast that includes Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, Jacob Elordi, and Alexa Demie. The show follows a group of high school students as they navigate complex relationships and personal struggles.
Audiences were captivated by Euphoria for its genuine portrayal of adolescent life, powerful acting, and exploration of important societal issues. While it showcases a somber atmosphere unlike Heartstopper, both series explore the complexities of youth and the challenges of growing up in unique ways.
Euphoria is available on HBO Max.
5) Love, Victor
Love, Victor is an American coming-of-age comedy-drama series that follows Benji Campbell, a high school student who moves to a new town and must navigate his sexuality, friendships, and family life. Benji struggles with coming out and finding acceptance, while also dealing with the challenges of high school.
The show delves into topics of identity, self-exploration, and inclusion, showcasing a heartfelt narrative and relatable cast. Love, Victor is an engaging story of youth exploring their sexual orientation and discovering a sense of belonging.
6) The End of the F***ing World
The End of the F***ing World is a British black comedy-drama series that follows James, a troubled teenager who believes he is a sociopath, and Alyssa, a rebellious classmate who convinces him to go on a road trip. The show explores complex relationships, the challenges of adolescence, and the dark side of human nature.
The series' dark humor, unexpected twists, and exploration of mental health resonated with viewers. Like Heartstopper, this show explores complex relationships and the challenges of adolescence. They also feature unique and unconventional characters.
It is available to stream on Netflix.
7) Everything Sucks!
Everything Sucks! is an American coming-of-age comedy-drama series set in the 1990s that follows a group of high school students as they navigate their friendships, relationships, and coming-of-age experiences. It stars Sydney Sweeney who offers a fantastic performance.
Like Heartstopper, it offers a nostalgic look at high school life. Everything Sucks! is available to stream on Netflix.
These shows are a perfect choice to spend time while fans wait for the much-loved teenage romance drama to make a return with season 3.