Heartstopper’s Joe Locke says he’s seen the impact of the show and more in interview
In an interview with Variety, Heartstopper star Joe Locke discussed his upcoming projects and how the show’s representation has impacted the world.
“I do see the impact that the show and I guess us as a cast being unapologetically us has had on people, but I think I’m just living my life,” Locke told Variety. “I’ve never been someone to apologize for who I am and I don’t think anyone should ever do that. My friends will tell you that much.”
The young actor first came out when he was 12 years old (he’s currently 19), so he’s kind of an old hat at living his life unapologetically. That said, he didn’t actually publicly confirm or even speak about his sexuality until an interview with Teen Vogue last August.
“People have assumed and written it,” he said of his sexuality. “And I haven’t ever corrected anyone because I haven’t felt the need to. But I’ve never specifically stated my sexuality.”
“Just be you,” Locke told Variety when asked to give advice to other young folks who may be struggling with their sexuality. “Everyone’s experience is different … I have an amazing group of people around me, but yeah, just be you. That’s all you can be.”
Beyond Hearstopper, Locke will also be starring in Marvel’s Wanda Vision spinoff Agatha: Darkhold Diaries, alongside acting giants like Patti LuPone and Kathryn Hahn. He seemed to have a good relationship with both actors, receiving encouragement from LuPone and finding electric synchronization with Hahn during their initial chemistry read. Locke apparently surprised the veteran by screaming at her during their argument scene, which made it into the final cut.
“It worked for the scene, it was amazing, and I just remember that feeling like, ‘Wow, this is the coolest. I’m working with this most amazing actress,”” he said. “It was great. I really think it’s going to be a very, very, very good show and I’m very excited for it to come out.”
Agatha: Darkhold Diaries is scheduled to release on Disney+ sometime during Fall 2024. The third season of Heartstopper will likely release around that time as well.
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