Fans and the creator of Netflix’s “Heartstopper” are rallying around series star Kit Connor after the actor said he was “forced” to come out as bisexual.
The 18-year-old actor made a rare appearance on Twitter on Monday, writing: “Back for a minute. I am bi. Congratulations on getting an 18 year old out on your own. I think some of you have missed the point of the show. Bye.”
Although Connor didn’t say why he felt compelled to come out, some recently accused the actor of “queerbaiting” on social media. The controversy began after photos surfaced of her holding hands with Maia Reficca, her co-star in A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow.
In “Heartstopper,” Connor plays Nick Nelson, a popular rugby player who befriends Joe Locke’s Charlie Spring; the two develop a romantic relationship.
Alice Oseman, creator, writer and host of “Heartstopper,” immediately expressed her support for Connor in reply to his tweet.
“I really don’t understand how people can watch ‘Heartstopper’ and then happily spend their time speculating about sexuality and judging based on stereotypes,” Oseman wrote. “I hope all these people are embarrassed. Kit, you are amazing.”
In interviews with DiversityOseman, Connor and star Joe Locke talked about what they hope the Netflix series, which began production on Season 2 in September, can mean to young queer people.
“If ‘Heartstopper’ helps a young queer person on their journey of discovery, or if it helps a parent understand their child a little better, that’s the sweetest, heartwarming thing you could ever hear, and it makes it all worth it. “, said Oseman.
Connor added: “I think there’s something really beautiful about a show where you see queer people happy and together and united as a group. I think shows like ‘Euphoria’, which are very queer, are still quite grown up in a lot of ways because they’re very dark and gritty. I think it’s very important to have a show that just shows unusual love and unusual beauty.”
Check out the fan support for Connor below.
