HEARTSTOPPER fans have been left gutted after a major star's exit has been confirmed.
The beloved Netflix show will be back later this year for its highly anticipated third series.
However, Olivia Colman has exited the show as Nick Nelson's mother ahead of filming.
The 50-year-old revealed she was unable to return to the role due to other projects she's working on.
Olivia told Forbes: "I couldn’t do number three. I couldn’t fit it in. I feel awful about that."
She added: "I feel like I was part of one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever been part of."
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Nick's mum may return one day, with Olivia saying she would do a potential fourth episode if schedules allowed for it.
"I’ll have a word. As long as it’s booked in advance, maybe I’ll be able to do it, yeah!"
Netflix bosses recently dropped a first look at series three of Heartstopper and confirmed it will drop on the platform in October.
Kit Connor and Joe Locke will reprise their roles as Nick Nelson and Charlie Spring respectively.
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The pair appeared in a behind-the-scenes clip released as they filmed scenes on location.
Footage then rolled of the cast and crew filming scenes at a funfair.
It's also been confirmed that the new run will have eight episodes.
William Gao, Yasmin Finney, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Tobie Donovan, Leila Khan, Rhea Norwood and Jenny Walser will also return for the next series.