Heartstopper season 2 release date and everything we know so far as Netflix offers first look

Netflix has teased a first look at Heartstopper season 2 as Charlie, Nick and friends return to school for a new term.

Based on Alice Oseman’s best-selling graphic novels of the same name, the coming-of-age drama follows a friendship between Truhan Grammar students Charlie, played by Joe Locke, and Nick, portrayed by Kit Connor, that blossoms into something more. The series has been praised for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ stories, including trans and bisexual characters and the challenges they face.

The first season proved a huge hit when it dropped in April last year and spent five weeks in the streamer’s top 10 shows in the UK. Fans have been patiently waiting for more news on the show, and Netflix this week confirmed exactly when Heartstopper would be returning.

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Its second season will see Charlie and Nick navigate their new relationship, while their friends Tara, Darcy, Tao and Elle face fresh difficulties in love and friendship. With a school trip to Paris, a prom to plan and exams looming, it's set to be a chaotic term for the teens.

New first-look photos show Nick and Charlie on a school trip, as well as Tara and Darcy looking cosy. Meanwhile Tao and Elle look loved-up on a romantic cinema date, complete with huge boxes of popcorn.

Olivia Coleman, Chetna Pandya and Alan Turkington are among the returning cast, as Nick's mum Sarah, Coach Singh and Mr Lange respectively. Author Alice Oseman continues as screenwriter for the series.

In a behind the scenes video, the actors chat about what's next for their characters. Manchester's very own Yasmin Finney plays transgender student Elle, who was the target of bullies and moved from Truham - a school