Fans Thrilled as Heartstopper Stars Spotted Filming Movie in Leeds: ‘Never Been So Thankful for a Delayed Train’

July 2025 has brought a wave of excitement to Heartstopper fans in the UK and beyond after lead actors Kit Connor and Joe Locke were spotted filming at Leeds train station for the upcoming Heartstopper movie. The project, which will serve as the grand finale to Alice Oseman’s acclaimed Netflix series, has been in active production throughout the summer, with both cast and creators sharing glimpses of progress online .

The filming at Leeds train station quickly drew attention from fans and passersby, many of whom took to social media to share their excitement and disbelief at witnessing such a significant moment in LGBTQ+ popular culture. Video clips and photos circulating online show Connor and Locke, who play Nick and Charlie, performing what onlookers described as an “emotional reunion” scene . One fan, caught in the right place at the right time due to a delayed train, posted, “Never been so thankful for a delayed train in my life!”—a sentiment echoed by many who witnessed the filming.

Heartstopper, initially adapted from Alice Oseman’s graphic novel, has received widespread praise for its authentic and heartfelt depiction of LGBTQ+ youth navigating love, friendship, and identity in modern Britain. The series has become a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its diverse representation and affirming storytelling, particularly among LGBTQ+ viewers who have often been underserved by mainstream media .

With the announcement that the story will culminate in a feature-length film, anticipation has reached new heights. Alice Oseman, creator and writer, confirmed earlier this month that production is more than halfway complete, with the movie expected to premiere on Netflix in 2026 . The film is helmed by director Wash Westmoreland, with the main cast reprising their roles, including Yasmin Finney, William Gao, and Tobie Donovan .

For many LGBTQ+ viewers, Heartstopper’s transition from series to feature film signifies more than just the end of a story—it is a celebration of visibility, resilience, and joy. The show’s positive depiction of relationships and chosen family has resonated deeply, particularly with transgender people, nonbinary individuals, and queer youth who rarely see their experiences reflected so authentically on screen . Social media has been awash with messages of gratitude, with fans highlighting how the series has offered hope and affirmation during challenging times.

The enthusiasm surrounding the Leeds filming underscores the passionate and global Heartstopper fanbase, whose support has helped propel the show from indie graphic novel to mainstream phenomenon. As production continues, the film’s cast and creative team have expressed appreciation for the ongoing love from viewers, promising a finale that honors the spirit of the story and its impact on the LGBTQ+ community .

While plot details for the Heartstopper movie remain closely guarded, both Netflix and Oseman have confirmed that the film will provide a fitting conclusion to the journeys of Nick, Charlie, and their friends. As filming continues throughout the UK this summer, fans are eagerly awaiting further updates and hoping for more serendipitous encounters as the production moves toward its finale .

With the Heartstopper movie on track for a 2026 release, anticipation is set to build as the cast and crew work to deliver a conclusion worthy of the series’ legacy. For fans—especially those lucky enough to witness the magic in Leeds—the wait promises to be worth it.