Heartstopper (Season 3): Official trailer
WARNING: This article contains spoilers from Heartstopper season 3, which is available to stream on Netflix now.
Netflix's beloved series Heartstopper faced a notable change in casting for its third season, much to the chagrin of fans who lamented the absence of Oscar-winning actress Olivia Colman as Sarah, Nick's mother. The coming-of-age series received thunderous applause when it dropped its latest season on October 3, but eagle-eyed viewers were quick to spot the empty space once filled by Colman, who graced the screen for two heart-warming seasons.
Alice Oseman's creation, which first found life as graphic novels, captivated audiences with its poignant exploration of teen romance and struggles with identity. At its heart, the storyline features an endearing love story between two teenagers, Nick (Kit Connor) and Charlie (Joe Locke).
Yet, despite her acclaimed portrayal as Nick's mother, Colman had to bow out from season three due to prior commitments, a decision she revealed to Forbes back in March 2024.
Stepping into the breach for season three, Hayley Atwell embraced the role of Nick's aunt Diane, and has recently hinted at a hopeful return for both herself and Colman, reports the Manchester Evening News.
In conversation with RadioTimes about the prospect of rejoining the cast alongside Colman, Atwell didn't mince words, asserting: "I would do anything with Olivia Colman."
Her adoration didn't stop there as she gushed: "I would go shopping [at] Sainsbury's with Olivia Colman. I love her very much, always have. I've been a big fan since I saw her in Tyrannosaur, in particular."
In a recent interview, Atwell opened up about joining the Netflix series, saying: "I think the show is so charming, and I think it's done a lot of good, particularly for the younger queer community."
She expressed her eagerness to be part of the project, stating: "For me, it felt like I absolutely wanted to be part of that show for that very reason, in support of that queer experience, which is not something that I have personal experience with, but something that's really important to my community."
Her enthusiasm didn't wane when approached for the role, as she recounted: "I was like, 'Yeah, I'll come in and play an aunt sure thing. What do you want me to do? ' [I was] really delighted to be asked."
Most famous for her portrayal of Agent Peggy Carter in the Marvel universe, Atwell has recently lent her voice to Netflix's new animated series, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, taking on the iconic lead role.
While there's still no official confirmation from Netflix regarding a fourth season for Heartstopper, writer Alice Oseman has hinted at continuing the graphic novel series which the show is based upon.
Heartstopper season 3 is available to stream now on Netflix.
