"As with season one, there is more tension and drama because we have slowed down the story," they said when comparing what will happen in future episodes to the graphic novels.
"Everything happens so fast in the graphic novels, but in the show, we want to lengthen the storylines, therefore more obstacles have to cross our characters' paths. This season, Nick wants to come out to the world, but faced with his nasty brother, his mostly absent father, and his laddy mates, soon finds that it's not as easy as he initially thought."
Oseman added that while Charlie (Joe Locke) was focused on supporting Nick, he may end up neglecting his own feelings as a result – with Nick then starting to feel concerned about his mental health.
However, they added: "But no matter the challenges ahead for the Heartstopper gang, we all know that they'll be okay in the end!"
The show became a monumental hit when it landed on the streamer last year, and although Oseman initially said the main target audience was younger viewers it proved every bit as successful with older demographics as well.
And Oseman said they were not overly surprised by the cross-generational appeal – given that "adults have always enjoyed teen stories."
Oseman continued: "There are so many reasons why people of any age might enjoy a story like Heartstopper, whether it's the queer romance, the coming-of-age plotlines, the explorations of mental health, or something else entirely."
Meanwhile, speaking of Nick and Charlie's first kiss – which is up for BAFTA Most Memorable Moment – they explained how it was "one of the most important and empowering scenes in the show."
"It’s a magical dream come true for Charlie, who has been crushing on Nick for months, despite being uncertain whether Nick could ever like him back," they commented.
"And for Nick, it’s a huge step towards accepting his own queerness, and his willingness to take that leap and say ‘yes’ to the kiss shows how strong his feelings for Charlie are. It’s a moment that lets the viewer step into the magic of first love, scored beautifully by Adiescar Chase."
The cast of Heartstopper with author Alice Oseman. Netflix
Oseman added that even being nominated for the award "is a wonderful symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community" especially given the challenges the community has faced in recent years.
"In the UK right now, LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly under threat, particularly trans rights, and to see Heartstopper among such popular cultural icons tells the world that queer love and queer identity is something to be celebrated," they concluded.
Patrick Cremona is the Senior Film Writer at Radio Times, and looks after all the latest film releases both in cinemas and on streaming. He has been with the website since October 2019, and in that time has interviewed a host of big name stars and reviewed a diverse range of movies.
David Craig is the Senior Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest and greatest scripted drama and comedy across television and streaming. Previously, he worked at Starburst Magazine, presented The Winter King Podcast for ITVX and studied Journalism at the University of Sheffield.
