Heartstopper star Kit Connor has come out as bisexual after being ‘forced’ to do so, saying he feels some people ‘missed the point’ of the hit Netflix show.
In the series, which is based on Alice Oseman's hit graphic novel of the same name, we see Connor’s character Nick come to terms with liking both men and women.
Since the heartwarming programme hit screens, Connor has been subjected to questions about his own sexual preferences.
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Now the actor has felt cornered into ‘outing himself’, despite the inclusive LGBT+ focus of the series.
He tweeted: "Back for a minute. 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.”
While Connor did not specify exactly why he was coming out, he has previously been accused on social media of ‘queer-baiting’ after choosing not to be open about his sexuality, having also been pictured holding hands with his A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow co-star Maia Reficco.
His tweet was met with a wave of love from colleagues and fans alike, with show creator Oseman commenting: “I truly don't understand how people can watch Heartstopper and then gleefully spend their time speculating about sexualities and judging based on stereotypes.
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"I hope all those people are embarrassed as F**K. Kit you are amazing.”
Sebastian Croft, who starred alongside Connor as Ben, also said: “Kit Connor, the world doesn’t deserve you. Love you my friend.”
Kizzy Edgell, who plays Darcy Olsson, added: “I love u Kit I'm sorry this has been so disgustingly rough on you. Been treated so unfairly.”
Many viewers echoed these sentiments, with some pointing out that Connor feeling pressured into coming out was the very antithesis of the show’s values.
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One said: “Not to mention u don't EVER have to tell them. If coming out empowers you - great. But if you simply live your truth without feeling the need to make an announcement, you're equally as valid.”
Someone else agreed: “U guys are so awful. Like the whole show was about HOMOPHOBIA and someone who was in the CLOSET yet y'all made the actor out himself which completely goes against the point of the show. You guys are disgusting and should be ashamed of yourselves. I’m so sorry Kit."
Earlier this year, Connor had spoken about the online goading for him to come out after starring in the LGBT+ show, explaining on the Reign With Josh Smith podcast just how problematic that was.
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"We’re still all so young," he said.
"To start sort of speculating about our sexualities and maybe pressuring us to come out when maybe we’re not ready.
"For me, I just feel perfectly confident and comfortable with my sexuality.
"But I don’t feel the need to really, you know — I’m not too big on labels and things like that.
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"I’m not massive about that. I don’t feel like I need to label myself, especially not publicly.”
He had also spoken about the matter on another occasion on Twitter, saying he found the social media platform ‘so funny’, adding: “Apparently some people on here know my sexuality better than I do…"
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the LGBT Foundation on 0345 3 30 30 30, 10am–6pm Monday to Friday, or email [email protected]