Joe Locke on Managing Fame and Privacy

In a candid conversation, “Heartstopper” star Joe Locke shared insights into how he and co-star Kit Connor manage their escalating fame. Locke, who portrays one half of a popular queer teen couple in the Netflix series, noted that they have developed subtle ways to remain unnoticed in public settings.

The actors, whose popularity surged with the series’ debut in 2022, are often recognized by young and queer fans. Locke revealed, “A friend of mine was with me and Kit hanging out once… he started laughing because whenever we see a group of teenagers or gay people, we both put our heads down.” He explained this as an unconscious strategy to avoid drawing attention while navigating public spaces.

The burgeoning fame of Locke and Connor is also compounded by their expanding careers. Locke has joined the Marvel universe with “Agatha All Along,” and Connor has taken to the New York stage appearing in “Sweeney Todd.” Their new roles continue to attract diverse audiences and contribute to their fame.

Locke reflected on the challenges of fame, particularly the struggle to maintain a private life. He said, “My privacy is like a power, and the idea of losing that is like the loss of that power.” He emphasized the importance of keeping his professional and personal lives distinct, something he cherishes greatly.

Despite the challenges, Locke expresses a love for the industry and the opportunities it provides. While he adapts to increased public recognition, he remains committed to maintaining a balance in his life, stating he makes it a point to engage in activities without allowing fame to overly influence his decisions.

Both “Heartstopper” and “Agatha All Along” can be streamed on Netflix and Disney+ respectively, continuing to expand the audience reach for the young actor.