‘Heartstopper‘ is a British coming-of-age drama based on the popular webcomic of the same name by Alice Oseman. The webcomic gained a significant following and was later adapted into a live-action television series. Heartstopper follows the story of two characters, Charlie Spring and Nick Nelson, who attend the same all-boys school. The series explores their journey of self-discovery, friendship, and eventually, their romantic relationship as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and young love.
The Heartstopper webcomic and its subsequent adaptation have received praise for its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes and relationships, touching on important topics such as identity, acceptance, and the challenges faced by young people as they come to terms with their emotions and feelings.
As with any adaptation, there may have been some changes or additional elements incorporated into the TV series to suit the medium and potentially enhance the storytelling experience, like Heartstopper. Here are Top 10 Recommended British coming-of-age shows that you might enjoy:
Skins (2007-2013)
“Skins,” an iconic British teen drama series that aired from 2007 to 2013, takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster as it delves deep into the lives of a diverse group of friends living in the city of Bristol, England. Set against the backdrop of the formative years of adolescence, the show’s narrative is a raw and unfiltered exploration of the ups and downs, joys and tribulations that accompany the journey to adulthood.
Seamlessly blending elements of drama, comedy, and tragedy, “Skins” fearlessly tackles a wide range of themes, from the complexities of friendship, love, and sexuality to the challenges of mental health and self-discovery.
Like Heartstopper, One of its distinctive features is the innovative storytelling approach where each episode is centered around a different character, allowing the audience to intimately connect with the inner thoughts, struggles, and aspirations of each individual.
As a result, the characters in “Skins” become fully fleshed-out and relatable, making the audience invested in their lives and personal growth. With its honest and unapologetic portrayal of teenage life, including explicit depictions of drug use and sexual encounters, “Skins” received both critical acclaim and controversy, capturing the essence of the trials and tribulations faced by young people in contemporary society.
The series’ authenticity and relatability struck a chord with audiences worldwide, earning it a dedicated fan base and securing its place as a cultural phenomenon. Moreover, “Skins” launched the careers of several talented actors, further contributing to its lasting impact on British television.
Ultimately, “Skins” remains an unforgettable coming-of-age series that continues to resonate with viewers, reminding us of the power of genuine storytelling and the challenges of growing up in an ever-changing world.
Misfits (2009-2013)
“Misfits,” a British television series that aired from 2009 to 2013, stands as a darkly comedic and captivating exploration of young offenders’ lives who inadvertently gain supernatural abilities following a mysterious electrical storm. Set in the fictional borough of Wertham, the show follows a group of misfits serving community service as part of their punishment for various offenses.
As they grapple with their newfound powers and attempt to conceal them from the world, the misfits are drawn into bizarre and often dangerous situations. The series masterfully weaves together themes of power, responsibility, and personal growth, as these young individuals, each with their own unique strengths and flaws, navigate the complexities of their superhuman abilities and confront the consequences of their actions.
Like Heartstopper, Midst the supernatural occurrences, “Misfits” delves into the relatable struggles of adolescence and the characters’ personal traumas, insecurities, and desires, making them compelling and multi-dimensional. With its sharp wit, unexpected twists, and a talented ensemble cast, “Misfits” offers a fresh and refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre, captivating audiences with its blend of sci-fi, drama, and humor, ultimately becoming a cult favorite among fans who appreciate its unconventional storytelling and raw, human elements.
The Inbetweeners (2008-2010)
“The Inbetweeners” is a popular British sitcom that originally aired from 2008 to 2010, with a subsequent movie released in 2011. The series revolves around the lives of four socially awkward friends as they navigate the often awkward and humorous situations that arise during their time at school.
The main characters, Will, Simon, Jay, and Neil, are distinct personalities, each with their own quirks and idiosyncrasies, making for a dynamic and entertaining group dynamic. The show artfully captures the essence of teenage camaraderie and the ups and downs of adolescence, striking a chord with viewers who can relate to the challenges of fitting in, forming friendships, and dealing with the uncertainties of growing up.
Like Heartstopper, The humor in “The Inbetweeners” is often cringe-worthy, relying on witty banter and situational comedy to create laugh-out-loud moments. While the characters frequently find themselves in embarrassing and outrageous situations, the series also explores more profound themes like the importance of loyalty, self-discovery, and the bonds of true friendship.
“The Inbetweeners” received widespread acclaim for its sharp writing, hilarious performances, and genuine portrayal of teenage life, quickly becoming a cult classic and attaining a devoted fan base. Its success eventually led to the creation of two successful movie spin-offs that continued to follow the antics of the four friends after their school days, solidifying its place in British television history as a beloved and enduring coming-of-age comedy.
Skins (US) (2011-2012)
“Skins (US)” is an American adaptation of the popular British teen drama series “Skins.” It aired on MTV from January to March 2011, with only one season consisting of ten episodes. The show aimed to replicate the success of the original British version while introducing American audiences to a similar portrayal of teenage life and its challenges.
“Skins (US)” follows a group of high school teenagers living in Baltimore, Maryland, as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, relationships, and personal growth. Much like the British version, each episode focuses on a different character’s perspective, providing a deeper understanding of their unique struggles and experiences.
While “Skins (US)” attempted to stay faithful to the original format and themes, it faced criticism for toning down some of the edgier and controversial elements that made the British version so distinct. The American adaptation faced challenges in fully embracing the raw and explicit nature of the original series due to stricter censorship regulations in the United States.
Like Heartstopper, “Skins (US)” received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. While some praised its attempt to address relevant issues faced by American teenagers, others criticized it for not fully capturing the authenticity and impact of the British version. The show also faced controversy for its portrayal of drug use, sexual content, and mature themes involving minors. Advertisers pulled their support from the series, citing concerns over its explicit content, and as a result, the show was canceled after its first season.
Despite its short-lived run, “Skins (US)” contributed to the ongoing discussions surrounding the portrayal of teenage life on television and the challenges of adapting successful foreign series for American audiences. It also sparked debates about the cultural differences and sensitivities in teen dramas across different regions.
In the end, “Skins (US)” remains an interesting footnote in the broader “Skins” franchise, but it did not achieve the same lasting impact and acclaim as its British counterpart. The original British version continues to be celebrated as a groundbreaking and influential coming-of-age series that resonated with viewers worldwide, while “Skins (US)” serves as a reminder of the complexities and risks involved in adapting beloved international shows for a new audience.
My Mad Fat Diary (2013-2015)
“My Mad Fat Diary” is a British comedy-drama television series that aired from 2013 to 2015. The show is based on the real-life diaries of Rae Earl and is an adaptation of her book “My Fat, Mad Teenage Diary.” It follows the life of Rae, a troubled and overweight teenage girl living in Stamford, Lincolnshire, during the mid-1990s. The series is a poignant and honest portrayal of adolescence, mental health struggles, body image issues, and the challenges of growing up.
The story revolves around Rae Earl (played by Sharon Rooney), a 16-year-old girl who has just been discharged from a psychiatric hospital after spending time there due to her struggles with self-harm and mental health issues. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance while trying to reintegrate into the world outside the hospital. Throughout the series, Rae copes with her body image concerns, grapples with the pressures of school, and navigates complex friendships and romantic relationships.
Like Heartstopper, “My Mad Fat Diary” tackles several important themes, making it stand out as a unique and impactful coming-of-age series:
1. Mental Health and Self-Acceptance- The show fearlessly portrays Rae’s mental health journey and her attempts to come to terms with her issues and love herself despite society’s beauty standards.
2. Friendship and Support: Rae’s friendship with a group of misfit friends, including her best friend Chloe, provides a support system that is both heartwarming and realistic.
3. Teenage Romance and Relationships: The series explores Rae’s romantic interests and the challenges of forming intimate connections during the emotionally turbulent teenage years.
4. Family Dynamics: Rae’s relationship with her mother, Linda (played by Claire Rushbrook), is another significant aspect of the show, delving into the complexities of family dynamics and parental expectations.
5. Nostalgia and ’90s Culture: set in the mid-1990s, “My Mad Fat Diary” also serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for viewers who grew up during that era, with references to ’90s music, fashion, and pop culture.
My Mad Fat Diary” received widespread critical acclaim for its authentic and sensitive portrayal of mental health issues, body image struggles, and the challenges faced by young people. It was praised for its realistic characters and strong performances, particularly from Sharon Rooney as Rae Earl. The show struck a chord with viewers who found solace and relatability in its honest depiction of the complexities of adolescence.
Although the series ran for only three seasons, “My Mad Fat Diary” left a lasting impact on its audience and is remembered as an important and groundbreaking show for its willingness to explore mental health topics and body positivity in a raw and heartfelt manner. It remains cherished by fans as a powerful and sincere coming-of-age drama that promotes self-acceptance and understanding, leaving a legacy of empathy and awareness for mental health issues among its viewers.
Fresh Meat (2011-2016)
“Fresh Meat” is a British comedy-drama television series that aired from 2011 to 2016. Created by Jesse Armstrong and Sam Bain, the show follows a group of six university students living in a shared house during their first year at the fictional Manchester Medlock University. The series expertly captures the hilarious, awkward, and transformative experiences of these diverse characters as they grapple with the transition from school to university life.
Like Heartstopper, Each of the main characters represents a different archetype, ranging from the socially awkward and nerdy Howard to the self-absorbed and confident JP. The show cleverly weaves together their individual storylines, showcasing their personal growth, relationships, and humorous mishaps. Throughout the series, the students face academic challenges, romantic entanglements like in Heartstopper, financial troubles, and the occasional clash of personalities that come with communal living.
“Fresh Meat” successfully balances laugh-out-loud humor with moments of poignancy, addressing themes such as friendship, ambition, identity, and the search for independence. The cast, which includes Jack Whitehall, Joe Thomas, and Zawe Ashton, delivers stellar performances, infusing the characters with depth and charisma.
Over its run, “Fresh Meat” became a beloved and relatable coming-of-age series, praised for its witty writing, engaging storytelling, and authentic portrayal of the trials and tribulations faced by university students as they navigate the often chaotic and unforgettable journey of higher education and self-discovery.
Ackley Bridge (2017-2020)
“Ackley Bridge” is a British drama series that aired from 2017 to 2020. Set in the fictional Yorkshire town of Ackley Bridge, the show revolves around the lives of students and staff at Ackley Bridge College, a newly merged school that brings together pupils from two previously segregated schools – one predominantly white and the other predominantly South Asian.
Like Heartstopper, The series candidly explores issues of race, culture, and identity as the students and teachers navigate the challenges of integration and coexistence in a multicultural setting. “Ackley Bridge” fearlessly delves into a wide range of social and personal topics, including racism, Islamophobia, bullying, poverty, family dynamics, teenage relationships, and LGBTQ+ representation, just like the portrayal in Heartstopper.
The series features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and aspirations, fostering empathy and understanding among viewers. The show’s strength lies in its complex and authentic portrayals of characters from different backgrounds, providing nuanced insights into the experiences and pressures they face both inside and outside the school.
With its compelling storytelling, stellar performances, and willingness to address contemporary social issues head-on, “Ackley Bridge” serves as a powerful and thought-provoking coming-of-age drama, leaving a lasting impact as a progressive and inclusive series that addresses the realities of modern-day youth in a diverse and interconnected world.
This Is England ’86, ’88, ’90
“This Is England ’86, ’88, and ’90” is a British television drama series that serves as a sequel to the critically acclaimed film “This Is England.” The trilogy, consisting of three miniseries, takes viewers on a powerful and immersive journey through the lives of a group of friends in England during the mid-1980s and early 1990s. The series captures the social, political, and cultural atmosphere of each period, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the challenges faced by the characters and the broader society they inhabit.
Each miniseries is named after the respective year it is set in, allowing for a detailed exploration of the characters’ growth and evolution over time. The show confronts themes of post-industrial decline, economic struggles, racial tensions, the rise of far-right ideologies, and the impact of historical events, such as the 1986 World Cup and the rave culture of the late ’80s and early ’90s.
Like Heartstopper, At its core, “This Is England” is a deeply human story of friendship, loyalty, love, and the search for identity amidst the complexities of a changing world. The outstanding performances by the cast, particularly Thomas Turgoose as Shaun, provide emotional depth to the characters’ experiences and challenges.
Through its unflinching and often heartbreaking portrayal of youth during these tumultuous years, “This Is England ’86, ’88, and ’90” cements its place as a groundbreaking and culturally significant coming-of-age trilogy that leaves a lasting impact, offering audiences a poignant and poignant reflection on the trials and triumphs of a generation, just like in Heartstopper.
Waterloo Road (2006-2015)
“Waterloo Road” is a long-running British television drama series that aired from 2006 to 2015. Set in the fictional school of Waterloo Road in Rochdale, the show centers around the lives of students, teachers, and staff as they navigate the complexities of education, family, and personal relationships. The series addresses a wide array of topical and thought-provoking social issues, including bullying, teenage pregnancy, mental health, substance abuse, and societal inequalities.
Just like in Heartstopper, The characters face their own personal struggles, they also grapple with the challenges of an ever-changing educational landscape, with the school undergoing multiple transformations and leadership changes. Throughout its run, “Waterloo Road” maintains a strong emphasis on the value of education and its potential to transform lives, showing how teachers often go above and beyond to make a difference in their students’ futures.
The show boasts a diverse and talented ensemble cast, including both young and established actors, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles, like Heartstopper.
As a result, “Waterloo Road” remains a compelling and emotionally resonant drama that shines a light on the power of community, resilience, and the importance of support and understanding in the lives of young people and those who shape their destinies.
The A Word (2016-present)
“The A Word” is a British drama series that premiered in 2016 and continues to captivate audiences with its poignant and insightful portrayal of a family dealing with the challenges of raising a child with autism. Set in the picturesque Lake District of England, the show revolves around the Hughes family and their journey after their five-year-old son, Joe, is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
As they come to terms with the diagnosis, the series delves into the complexities of family dynamics, relationships, and the ways in which autism impacts each family member’s life. “The A Word” is a sensitive and authentic exploration of autism, shedding light on the struggles faced by children with the condition, as well as the triumphs and joys that come with understanding and acceptance.
Through its compelling storytelling and exceptional performances by actors such as Max Vento (Joe), Christopher Eccleston (Maurice, Joe’s grandfather), and Morven Christie (Alison, Joe’s mother), the series manages to strike a delicate balance between heartwarming moments and emotional challenges. As the narrative unfolds, viewers witness the family’s growth, as well as the support and love that sustains them through the trials of raising a child with unique needs.
Unlike Heartstopper, “The A Word” is celebrated for its realistic and compassionate portrayal of autism, helping to raise awareness and foster empathy for families dealing with similar situations. With its touching exploration of family bonds, acceptance, and understanding, “The A Word” remains a moving and relevant drama that continues to resonate with audiences, leaving a lasting impact as an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of the realities of living with autism.
