Joe Locke Bids Farewell to ‘Heartstopper’ Character as Netflix Series Wraps Filming

After three celebrated seasons and a highly anticipated feature film, Netflix’s ‘Heartstopper’ has officially wrapped production, signaling the end of a pivotal chapter in LGBTQ+ television. The series, based on Alice Oseman’s beloved graphic novels, became a sensation for its authentic portrayal of queer youth, resonating with audiences worldwide and breaking new ground in mainstream representation. Filming for the final installment, now revealed to be titled ‘Heartstopper: Forever,’ concluded in late July 2025 in the UK, after a month-long production under the codename SUNBEAM .

Joe Locke, who has embodied the character of Charlie Spring since the series debuted in 2022, shared heartfelt reflections as he wrapped his final scenes. Posting on social media, Locke expressed gratitude for the journey, noting the personal and cultural significance of portraying a queer teenager navigating love, identity, and friendship. The actor’s message resonated across the ‘Heartstopper’ community, with fans and fellow cast members acknowledging the character’s impact on LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance .

In his tribute, Locke wrote, “Thank you, Charlie, for teaching me so much about vulnerability and hope. It’s been an honor to bring your story to life.” The post was met with an outpouring of support, highlighting the way Locke’s performance has empowered queer youth to see themselves reflected authentically on screen .

Since its premiere, ‘Heartstopper’ has been praised for centering queer joy and the complexities of coming-of-age within the LGBTQ+ community. The show’s gentle storytelling and diverse cast—featuring gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender characters—have redefined how queer lives are depicted in mainstream media. Critics and advocacy groups have cited the series as a model for inclusive storytelling, with Alice Oseman’s writing and the ensemble cast’s chemistry earning accolades across the industry .

Locke’s portrayal of Charlie—a sensitive, openly gay teenager navigating first love—was lauded for its nuance and emotional honesty. Alongside Kit Connor’s Nick Nelson, the central romance became an emblem of hope for LGBTQ+ viewers, sparking conversations about self-acceptance and mental health. As the cast moves on, many fans and commentators are reflecting on the broader influence of ‘Heartstopper’ in challenging stereotypes and fostering empathy .

With filming completed, the ‘Heartstopper: Forever’ feature film now enters post-production, with a release date set for 2026 . Netflix has yet to announce further details about the movie’s plot, but insiders and social posts from the cast suggest it will serve as both a conclusion and a celebration of the series’ legacy .

Both Joe Locke and Kit Connor took to their respective social media platforms to commemorate the final day of filming. Their messages highlighted the friendships formed on set and the transformative experience of bringing queer stories to a global audience . The cast’s public gratitude underscores the importance of representation—not just for viewers, but for those telling the stories as well.

As the series bows out, advocacy groups and fans are celebrating its contribution to LGBTQ+ culture. Many hope its success will inspire continued investment in queer-centered narratives and encourage studios to prioritize authentic voices in casting, writing, and production.

For many LGBTQ+ viewers, ‘Heartstopper’ has been more than just a show—it has been a lifeline, a mirror, and a source of affirmation. Joe Locke’s farewell to Charlie Spring marks the end of a landmark era in queer storytelling but also signals the beginning of new possibilities for LGBTQ+ representation in media. As the world awaits the release of ‘Heartstopper: Forever,’ the series’ legacy endures in the hearts of those who saw themselves, maybe for the first time, on screen.