Heartstopper Season 3 episodes ranked by how much they'll make you ugly cry

*Warning: Contains major spoilers for Heartstopper Season 3*

The highly-anticipated new season of Heartstopper has finally dropped on , and fans are already devouring all eight episodes.

Based on Alice Oseman's acclaimed graphic novels, the coming-of-age drama follows a tight-knit group of friends as they navigate love, mental health, and the ups and downs of adolescence.

Over its three-season run, the LGBTQ+ series has beautifully portrayed the blossoming romance between lead characters Charlie (Joe Locke) and Nick (Kit Connor), from friends to boyfriends.

Tackling tough themes like mental health and body dysmorphia head-on, fans have come to expect an emotional rollercoaster. But which episodes from the latest series will leave you tearful?

With the new season now streaming on Netflix, we've ranked every episode of season three by its tear-jerking potential.

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8. Episode 1 - 'Love'

Kicking off the season, the first episode is the least likely to leave viewers sobbing.

The episode synopsis reads: "On a trip to the beach, Charlie's desperate to tell Nick how he feels - but Nick also has something he wants to discuss. Tao plans a summer of romance."

As the characters reunite, the mood is mostly upbeat. The iconic shower 'I love you' scene is the episode's climax, and while it may bring tears, they'll be happy ones.

7. Episode 7 - 'Together'

Ranking in penultimate place for the season is episode seven.

The lowdown given is: "As the school year comes to an end and the students begin thinking about their futures, Charlie and Nick struggle to find a moment alone together."

By this stage of the show, the group has ironed out most of their differences and we see Nick and Charlie trying to push their relationship forward.

6. Episode 8 - 'Apart'

Taking the sixth spot is the seasons dramatic finale. Typically a show's finale really tugs hard at the heartstrings, though not as much this time around.

The description tells us: "Nick and the girls go on a road trip to look at unis, as he tries to decide whether to stay near Charlie or move away. Sahar's band plays at a fete."

This final instalment gets viewers reaching for the tissues as Nick grapples with uni choices and what it means for his future with Charlie. But through it all, spirits remain high among the crew.

5. Episode 5 - 'Winter'

Coming in fifth is the festive episode, filled with its fair share of highs and lows for the cast.

It details: "It's a tough for Charlie, and his family - except for Tori - isn't helping. Elle and Tao talk about sex, and sparks fly at a New Year's party."

This one will have you grabbing the Kleenex as Elle and Tao wrestle with a serious chat about moving their relationship up a notch. Elle lets Tao in on her body dysphoria and he's nothing but supportive. Plus, Tori and Michael experience a charming first encounter that will have you welling up.

4. Episode 6 - 'Body'

We're into the top four now, and episode six is a real tear-jerker.

The synopsis reads: "Elle's art going viral on social media lands her an interview. Charlie tells Nick he's ready to go to the next level and Tara suffers a panic attack."

This episode packs an emotional punch with several distressing storylines, including Elle's radio interview which takes a turn for the worse when the presenter labels trans identity as a 'hot topic', and Tara experiencing a panic attack over concerns about the future.

3. Episode 2 - 'Home'

Coming in at number three is episode two, featuring a memorable scene straight from the novels.

The synopsis reads: "On holiday in Menorca, Nick worries about Charlie, who is struggling more than ever. Isaac starts to feel like a third wheel around Elle and Tao."

Nick is deeply concerned for Charlie's wellbeing and seeks advice from his aunt, who tells him: "Love can't cure a mental illness." This line, one of Alice Oseman's most quoted, encourages the young characters to seek professional help rather than trying to handle things on their own. With fans having anticipated this moment since season one, it's guaranteed to leave you reaching for the tissues.

2. Episode 3 - 'Talk'

Securing the second spot is episode three, which, as you might guess, kicks off the season with some challenging themes.

The synopsis reads: "It's a new term, and Tao misses Elle now they're at different schools. Charlie plans a birthday surprise for Nick, who's still worried for his boyfriend."

This episode is an emotional rollercoaster. The gang hardly ever falls out, so when Isaac and Tao clash, it sends shockwaves through their tight-knit circle.

Meanwhile, Charlie grapples with increasing signs of his mental health struggles and musters the courage to open up to his parents about his eating disorder. The episode culminates in a poignant moment as Charlie comes clean to his folks.

1. Episode 4 - 'Journey'

Topping the list is episode 4, a pivotal moment in the series.

The official blurb states: "Charlie seeks medical help and begins the long road to recovery. Nick starts keeping a journal, and Tao makes a video to support his absent friend."

In this episode, Charlie's path takes a hopeful turn with the onset of medical intervention. Yet, his friends, especially Nick, feel his absence deeply, lacking any direct way to reach him.

Despite lighter moments like the Halloween festivities, the void left by Charlie is palpable, and his battle towards wellness is portrayed with raw authenticity.

Heartstopper season three is available to stream now on Netflix.