Heartstopper season 3 just said “comphet” with its Imogen storyline

As a seasoned fan of Heartstopper, I must say that this third season has truly outdone itself! The character development in Imogen’s storyline was nothing short of remarkable.


Heartstopper season 3 spoilers follow.

Advisory for those young women who enjoyed kissing their female friends during nights out: It’s possible that you identify as lesbian or queer today.

In a less rigid manner, the Netflix series “Heartstopper” has managed to transform one of its slightly grating characters, Imogen, in season three. This transformation is unexpected yet delightful, offering a refreshing change of pace.

In the final episode of Heartstopper’s second season, it was subtly suggested that one of the group members who identifies as straight might actually be queer. Many fans are eager to see if this storyline will be further explored in future episodes.

Switch to a scene showing Imogen, in the midst of a lavish costume party, having passionately kissed Sahar after consuming a considerable amount of wine.

Heartstopper season 3 just said "comphet" with its Imogen storyline

In a slurred voice, Imogen comments, “When people are drunk, it seems like they kiss everyone, but she explains this as just an ‘experiment’ she was conducting.

As a gamer, let me clarify something: Sahar, a character I know, identifies as bisexual and has made it clear that she holds feelings beyond friendship for Imogen. It was tough when Imogen decided to “dabble” with her, but later on, Imogen acknowledges this fact – though our story hasn’t reached that point yet.

In various situations, numerous women may suppress or doubt their attraction towards others, regardless of gender other than men. This phenomenon can be attributed to something known as “compulsory heterosexuality” or simply “comphet”. Although it wasn’t explicitly mentioned in episode three of Heartstopper, the struggles of Imogen on the show powerfully convey this theme.

Heartstopper season 3 just said "comphet" with its Imogen storyline

It’s quite unexpected that Imogen decided to go as Barbie for the costume party; a doll marketed as an ideal of beauty, often given to children to play with, when she herself is accompanied by Nick, who seems to be her Ken counterpart (it just so happens that Nick was supposed to embody Ken, but Captain America required his attention instead).

It’s a sad – somewhat creepy, actually – reality that, from a young age, those conditioned as girls are raised to believe that it’s our destiny to end up with a man. In fact, whether we realise it or not, so much of our self-worth can be tied up in whether or not we attract the attention or approval of men.

It can be difficult to discern if our feelings mirror the attraction we’re experiencing, or if we simply appreciate the sensation of being desired.

When societal expectations assume that people are heterosexual unless explicitly stated otherwise, it’s not surprising that some women may not recognize or express their queer identity (having the words to express feelings they’ve long held).

Absolutely, having an authentic attraction towards men doesn’t mean you can’t identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community – bisexuality and beyond is real! However, in a patriarchal society that primarily caters to male needs, understanding one’s sexual orientation might be more complex.

Heartstopper season 3 just said "comphet" with its Imogen storyline

In a significant talk, Imogen moves closer to understanding everything, as she connects with her ex-boyfriend-turned-confidant, Nick.

“It’s weird I used to like you,” she tells him.

In a shared hotel room, I find myself opposite another, a moment that typically stirs anticipation in me, as old patterns may suggest. Yet, this time, I remind myself and you, dear reader, that we’re simply friends, defying the usual assumptions about my actions. Here, I prepare to engage not just in the familiar dance of attention, but in a friendship that transcends these expectations.

However, she subsequently shares her thoughts that had been weighing on her, leading to an unexpected change of topic.

She clarified, “I’m not certain I felt the same way about you… it was more like a social expectation, I guess, as I felt pressured to have a partner.

Heartstopper season 3 just said "comphet" with its Imogen storyline

Imogen shared with Nick that she viewed dating someone as something “cool girls usually do.” Moreover, she admitted to appreciating male attention since it helped her feel significant and on the right track in life.

Ultimately, Imogen realized that upon deeper reflection, “it seems I never truly fancied any boy, in truth…

While Imogen never labelled herself, a conversation with Sahar had her opening up even more.

Heartstopper season 3 just said "comphet" with its Imogen storyline

After Imogen offers a unique apology for repeatedly causing harm, Sahar informs Imogen that there was no room for hatred on her part, as Imogen had been instrumental in helping Sahar discover a significant truth about herself.

“I guess I could say the same about you,” Imogen replies.

Despite acknowledging that they would make a poor match due to being “awful together,” their shared realization strengthens their bond, bringing them even closer.

Heartstopper, indeed, receives much acclaim for its extensive and intricate portrayal of various aspects within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. It’s now a pleasure to welcome Imogen into this widely admired group.

Heartstopper is available on Netflix.

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2024-10-03 19:19

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