A New 'Heartstopper' Season 3 Character Has Been Revealed

The wait between Heartstopper seasons has been unbearable but finally, we have some news about what's coming next season — or more accurately who's coming!

Netflix has unveiled the first new cast member for season three of Heartstopper, and we could not be more excited!

The first announcement was shared by Netflix on Twitter/X and revealed that actor Darragh Hand is joining the third season. "Excited to officially welcome Darragh Hand to the Heartstopper family for S3. Our Michael Holden has arrived," the X post read.

Alice Oseman, author of the Heartstopper graphic novels and showrunner of the Netflix series, also shared the news on Instagram, expressing how thrilled they are to cast Hand for season three. The actor will play Michael Holden, a new character described as quirky and eccentric. Michael was first featured in Oseman's debut novel, Solitaire, as well as in the Heartstopper graphic novels.

“I was quite nervous and excited to begin the search for our Michael!” Oseman wrote. “Michael is a quirky, eccentric optimist with a sunshine deposition, and it was a challenge to find someone who I felt truly channeled Michael from the books. But then Darragh came along and warmed our hearts.”

The two main cast members of Heartstopper, Joe Locke (Charlie) and Kit Connor (Nick), are returning for season three. Most of their core group of friends is also coming back.

On the other hand, Sebastian Croft (Ben) will not be returning. Oseman even issued an official statement explaining why Ben's role in Heartstopper concluded in season two. Furthermore, the Heartstopper creator explained that mental health will continue to be a significant theme in season three.

Production for Heartstopper season three reportedly started in October 2023. While there is still no official release date, the upcoming season is expected to premiere in 2024 on Netflix.