No one can deny the global success of Netflix’s queer show Heartstopper. With its welcoming representation of the LGBTQ+ community, fans are delighted to support the show. However, one of its lead stars, Kit Connor, was bullied into coming out as bisexual after some viewers accused him of ‘queer baiting.’
In November, the 18-year-old actor opened up about his sexuality after some so-called fans condemned the actor, saying that he only identified as a member of the LGBTQ+ community to further his career.
In a now deleted tweet, he wrote: “I’m bi. Congrats for forcing an 18-year-old to out himself. I think some of you missed the point of the show. Bye.”
Many individuals come to the defense of Connor; one of them is his co-star Olivia Colman. In an interview with Variety, the Oscar-winning actress blasted the people who bullied the young actor to reveal his true sexuality.
“I am so proud of him, but I am not proud of how people bullied him,” she underscored.
Colman continued, “I think people should be allowed to have their own journey. But I’m incredibly proud of him as a young man to deal with all of that and be in the spotlight. It’s unfair. But he’s amazing. He’s a very beautiful human being.”
The Crown star plays Connor’s mother in Heartstopper. One of the many scenes that fans have admired in the series was when Nick Nelson opened up to his mother about his sexuality.
Related: Heartstopper’s Kit Connor Praises The Crown Star Olivia Colman: ‘Thank God We Had Olivia Colman’
Alongside Colman, Heartstopper creator Oseman was one of the first individuals to voice her support for Connor, expressing, “I truly don’t understand how people can watch Heartstopper and then gleefully spend their time speculating about sexualities and judging based on stereotypes,”
Heartstopper follows the story of a student-rugby player, Nick, who begins questioning his sexuality after befriending classmate Charlie Spring, portrayed by Joe Locke. The two eventually fall into a tender romance.
Heartstopper is set to return for a second season in 2023.
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