Heartstopper’s Season 3 Finale Shows That All We Have Is Each Other
In the last two seasons, Heartstopper has captured the hearts of viewers with its light-hearted and uplifting romance. The first season showcased the early stages of the dreamy relationship between Nicholas Nelson (Kit Connor) and Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), while the second season dealt with the challenges of coming out, all infused with the show’s unique charm. This season, however, takes a significant turn by tackling serious issues such as eating disorders, mental health, asexuality, and sexuality with a more thoughtful approach. Although this shift brings a more somber tone compared to the previous light-heartedness, it resonates more authentically with the realities of today’s teens. Even if it feels a bit different this time, Heartstopper continues to shine as a source of support for young people facing similar challenges.
With the progression of season 3, the value of community stands out, highlighting both biological and chosen families. Several serious issues find resolutions when characters turn to their support systems. Thanks to Nick's support, Charlie sought help for his eating disorder and mental health challenges. Meanwhile, Tao and Elle navigated their sexual experiences skillfully after having an important conversation; this season also featured touching and insightful discussions about Elle's gender identity. Additionally, Tara dealt with academic stress and managed an anxiety attack with her friends by her side.
The final episode, called "Apart," highlights the theme of community by focusing on the significance of the people we decide to have in our lives. Many LGBTQ+ individuals often struggle to find a solid support network. Heartstopper demonstrates that our allies are often right in front of us; we just need to recognize and connect with them.
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The scene starts with Nick and Charlie lying in bed, reflecting on their first night together. The previous episode wrapped up with them finally being intimate, although Charlie chose to keep his shirt on. Nick is perfectly fine with that and notes that their experience was more about touching rather than having penetrative sex. They have a thoughtful discussion about the various meanings of sex, emphasizing that it can be defined in many ways. Charlie then teases Nick about whether he’s been researching the "right" way to have sex and pulls up Nick’s laptop to check his search history. In doing so, he discovers that Nick has been looking into universities that are not very close to home. Nick expresses concern about potentially being away from Charlie, indicating that he’ll likely choose a nearby school instead. Personally, I doubt that’s the whole truth and can already sense a potential emotional twist coming up.
Charlie heads home and talks to his mom, Georgina Rich, who in the previous episode lost her temper and told Charlie he couldn’t stay overnight at Nick’s. She expresses remorse, acknowledging that she can be a bit strict and easily frustrated. She understands that sleepovers with a boyfriend can feel like a big emotional step. Georgina suggests that Charlie might consider waiting until after their exams to have that kind of sleepover. Charlie agrees to this arrangement. Personally, I'm surprised that teenage sleepovers with boyfriends are even a thing—this would not have been acceptable during my teenage years!
Later on, Nick teams up with Tara, Imogen (Rhea Norwood), and Elle for a college road trip (someone get Raven Symoné on the phone) to explore different universities. They travel to various locations, some nearby and some a bit further away, and even spend a night away, sharing a room. Imogen, who has had a bit of a crush on Nick in the past, opens up about her feelings, admitting she was just seeking some attention. It makes you wonder if she’s ever genuinely liked a guy at all. Nick reassures her.
The following day, Elle discovers from Tao that Nick and Charlie have been intimate. Although Nick doesn't share any specifics, the girls decide to take him to a store to pick up condoms and lubricant. It’s a classic moment of growing up for a teenager exploring their sexuality. Later, the group travels to London on their way to Leeds. Nick quickly becomes enamored with the LGBTQ+ community, the opportunity to play rugby, and the university itself. However, there's a small catch: the school is four hours away from where he lives. On the drive back home, Nick expresses his reluctance about being in a long-distance relationship. Elle reminds him that he needs to prioritize his own happiness.
Charlie, on the other hand, chooses to reduce the frequency of his therapy sessions. He mentions that he has friends who can support him in between visits. “I’ve come to understand that while I care for Nick, I also need others around me,” Charlie explains, highlighting the importance of community in our lives. Additionally, he decides to run for head boy at Truham.
His entire family then goes to a carnival reminiscent of Love, Simon, where he is set to perform with Sahar (Leila Khan) and her band, Queer Intentions.
Michael (played by Darragh Hand) approaches Charlie for some guidance regarding Tori (Jenny Walser). After Michael proposed the idea of being in a relationship, Tori had an intense reaction. Later, Charlie joins Tori on the Ferris wheel, where Tori opens up about feeling envious of Charlie's optimism. Charlie acknowledges how much Tori has supported him over the past year, expressing that she has a lot of love to share, which includes Michael. After their ride, Tori talks to Michael, but it's unclear where their relationship stands. When can we expect a Tori-focused spinoff?
Tara then sends a direct message to the group of friends on Instagram, which appears to be their primary way of chatting. She updates them that those on the road trip are caught in traffic and might not reach the carnival in time to see the band play. Nick believes that Charlie needs him present for his performance. After some risky driving, they manage to get there during the show. Even without Nick, Charlie is able to perform, which is something he probably wouldn’t have been capable of doing at the beginning of the season.
After the show, Charlie’s mom gives him the green light to stay the night at Nick’s place. The season wraps up with a whimsical carnival scene where Elle shares her plans to attend art school in Europe. Tao is thrilled for her and isn’t concerned at all. This, however, makes Nick a bit anxious about the choice he has to make soon.
Charlie and Nick go back to their place and become intimate. Charlie finally removes his shirt, which feels significant. Nick expresses his feelings, saying, "I love you, and you’re incredibly attractive," to which Charlie reacts with a warm embrace. The season wraps up with a celebration of Charlie’s body, highlighting that although self-love and acceptance require effort, the kind words of others can truly make a difference. The credits roll.
Samuel serves as the Associate Editor at ELLE Magazine. Before taking on this position, he worked as the Assistant to the Editor-in-Chief, Nina Garcia. At ELLE, Samuel covers topics related to music, fashion, arts, and culture, and has had the opportunity to interview various celebrities including Normani, Lola Tung, Sara Bareilles, Kelli O’Hara, Nicholas Galitzine, and Tate McRae. Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, Samuel studied at Northwestern University and now lives in New York City.
