The film will come in addition to a sixth instalment of Alice Oseman’s series of graphic novels, that will follow the same plot. The series adaptation has launched the careers of many of the young cast - most of whom made their screen debuts in Heartstopper. Kit Connor and Joe Locke, who star as Nick and Charlie, have had roles on Broadway and in the Marvel universe, respectively. Meanwhile, Yasmin Finney joined the Doctor Who cast for the 60^th Anniversary, and Bradley Riches entered the Big Brother house.

Connor and Locke’s portrayals of Nick and Charlie launched the first Heartstopper series into Netflix’s global top 10, thanks to their depiction of young love. Iconic moments, such as Nick coming out to his mum, standing up to Charlie’s bullies, and a first kiss in the rain, have helped keep the series in the zeitgeist and on your For You page.

Series two and three saw their relationship from teen romance, through GCSEs and A-levels, and set the stage for their long-distance relationship. With Nick heading off to Leeds University and Charlie remaining behind for his final year of sixth form, the film will likely explore the challenges of taking their relationship from high school into the real world.

Connor and Locke have signed up to executive produce the film, alongside creator Alice Oseman and series director Euros Lyn, the first production credit for either actor. Wash Westmoreland, director of multi award-winning film Still Alice, will direct the film. Returning cast is yet to be announced, with no word on whether Olivia Colman, who played Nick’s mother, is to return after departing in series two.

There is no release date set for Heartstopper’s feature film.