This article has big spoilers about characters or plots.
Kit Connor and Joe Locke, stars of Heartstopper, have a key message from the last scene of Season 3: “Practice safe sex,” they both declare. With a playful grin, Connor adds, “Take your time. There’s no rush. It took them three whole seasons to do it, and they’re just fine.”
Their words might make you smile, but they’re serious about Nick and Charlie’s relationship. The pair reaches a new closeness, showing how much they’ve grown over three seasons. It’s more than teenage feelings; it’s about deep emotions and growth.
Alice Oseman, who created the series, calls the end of Season 3 the peak of Charlie’s self-discovery journey. At first, he isn’t even comfortable taking off his shirt at the beach. By Episode 8, he’s confidently standing before the one he loves. “It ends in such a joyful, beautiful place for both of them,” Oseman explains. Charlie finally feels good about himself, not just in his relationship.
Fans love seeing Nick and Charlie take things slow, learning to be confident.
The books that Heartstopper is based on have a different ending, hinting at Nick’s future university plans and possible long-distance issues. However, Oseman wanted the show to end on a happy note for Season 3. The actors are pleased with this choice.
“I think it really works so much better for the TV show,” Connor says, with Locke nodding in agreement. “It’s such a nice, emotional end to the season. I’m really glad that it ended up that way.”
What Happens at the End of Heartstopper Season 3?
The last episode of Season 3 shows a hopeful side after Charlie’s tough journey with mental health. While Nick explores universities with Elle, Tara, and Imogen, Charlie stays home preparing for a band performance. Choosing a T-shirt over a heavy sweater shows his improved body image.
Nick manages to reach Charlie’s gig despite traffic, finding him playing with confidence. Afterward, they return to Nick’s room, sharing an intimate moment where Charlie asks Nick to remove his shirt. They understand this is special. In the final frame, the two hold each other closely while leaves swirl around them, highlighting their deep connection.
Charlie’s Mental Health Journey
Season 3 makes Charlie and Nick’s happy ending even more meaningful by showing their struggles. Charlie gets help for anorexia and OCD, while Nick learns how to support him. The team spent weeks rehearsing these sensitive scenes, with Oseman noting that Connor and Locke enjoyed tackling the tough parts.
“They both love the moments that are more dramatic, that are darker,” Oseman shares. “It gives them something new and different to work on.”
Connor appreciates Episode 4, which focuses on Charlie’s treatment and Nick’s reaction, feeling it was crucial for viewers to see Nick’s vulnerability. Locke found the challenge rewarding but also wanted to ensure the story was told respectfully.
The Approach to Intimate Scenes
Tobie Donovan, who plays Isaac, hinted last year that Heartstopper would mature this season. Not only do Nick and Charlie explore their relationship further, but so do Elle and Tao. Elle openly discusses her experiences as a trans girl with her boyfriend, offering a realistic view into her life.
Yasmin Finney, who plays Elle, is grateful for the opportunity to portray her character’s journey. “I’m growing into a woman as Yasmin, and I’m able to play that through Elle,” she shares.
Oseman worked closely with Finney to bring authenticity to Elle’s story, leading to meaningful scenes about exploring her identity.
Tori and Michael’s Relationship Status
While many Heartstopper couples deepen their connections, Tori and Michael’s status is uncertain. Michael wants to label Tori his girlfriend, but she’s unsure. The reason lies in Oseman’s fifth book, where Tori reveals she’s asexual, explaining her confusion about the relationship.
Donovan, who also plays an asexual character, is proud to represent this community, feeling it’s important for everyone to see themselves reflected in stories.
Stay tuned to Tudum for more updates on Charlie, Nick, and their friends’ adventures.