Alice Oseman Provides Exciting Update on 'Heartstopper Forever' Film Amid Post-Production Progress

Alice Oseman, the creator of the beloved graphic novel series and Netflix show Heartstopper, posted an end-of-year update on Instagram on December 21, 2025, revealing significant advancements in the production of Heartstopper Forever, the feature-length finale set for release on Netflix in 2026. Oseman noted that the film is "still not quite finished," with picture editing nearly complete and work now beginning on animation, special effects, and music. She emphasized the team's commitment to a spoiler-free experience, sharing only select behind-the-scenes photos, including one of Nick Nelson's bedroom set and another with producer Patrick Walters.

The post comes at a time when fans of the queer teen romance have been eagerly awaiting news since the third season concluded in October 2024. Netflix officially announced the film on April 22, 2025, opting for a movie finale instead of a fourth season to adapt elements from the sixth volume of Oseman's graphic novels and the novella Nick and Charlie. Filming wrapped on July 28, 2025, marking the end of principal photography for stars Kit Connor as Nick Nelson and Joe Locke as Charlie Spring, who are also serving as executive producers.

Heartstopper Forever picks up after the events of season three, focusing on the evolving relationship between Charlie, a gay teenager navigating mental health challenges and independence at school, and Nick, a bisexual rugby player preparing for university. A official synopsis describes the story as exploring whether first loves endure amid long-distance strains: "Nick and Charlie are inseparable, but with Nick preparing to leave for university and Charlie finding new independence at school, the reality of a long-distance relationship begins to weigh on them. Doubts take hold, and their relationship faces its biggest challenge yet. Meanwhile, their friends are also navigating the ups and downs of love and friendship, confronting the bittersweet challenges of growing up and moving on."

Oseman has confirmed that the film will not strictly follow Volume Six of the graphic novels, set for release on July 2, 2026, in the UK . Instead, it blends events from the final volume with the Nick and Charlie novella, introducing unique divergences to heighten emotional impact. At the Edinburgh International Book Festival, Oseman explained, "I’ve talked a little bit about how it has been very difficult to implement the events of the novella in Volume Six. In the film, I have found a different way to approach this problem... even once you read Volume Six, there will still be quite a few surprises in the movie waiting for you."

This creative choice underscores Oseman's dedication to authentic queer storytelling, drawing from their own experiences as a non-binary creator. Heartstopper has been celebrated for its affirming portrayal of LGBTQ+ identities, including gay, bisexual, transgender, and asexual characters, without relying on trauma-driven narratives. The series, which began as a Tumblr webcomic nearly a decade ago, has fostered global conversations on young queer love, mental health, and friendship.

Joe Locke, who plays Charlie Spring, described the film as "a really nice closing chapter of the story," hinting at emotional depth in addressing separation and growth. Filming locations, such as Leeds train station, suggest Nick's university choice may test the couple's bond, aligning with themes of resilience in queer relationships.

Oseman's update outlines the remaining post-production timeline: after effects and music, dubbing into multiple languages will take several months, followed by marketing rollout. "I’m very nervous and scared about what you’ll think of it… but that’s probably normal! 2026 will be a big year for Heartstopper," Oseman wrote, thanking fans for their patience during a "quiet" period.

The decision for a film finale followed a reported 30% drop in season three viewership and contract considerations, but Oseman and producer Patrick Walters secured Netflix's commitment. Directed by Wash Westmoreland, the project maintains the series' wholesome tone while delving into mature themes like time, memory, and endings.

Heartstopper's impact extends beyond entertainment, resonating with LGBTQ+ youth worldwide by normalizing diverse identities and relationships. As the franchise concludes, Oseman's update reaffirms its role in queer media representation, promising a heartfelt send-off for Charlie, Nick, and their circle.