Heartstopper's Joe Locke gives his take on straight actors playing gay
Briefly

Locke emphasized that he believes it's unfair to restrict opportunities based solely on an actor's sexuality, stating, "I wouldn't want to not be able to play a straight character, so I don't think it's fair to stop someone straight - who can do all the research - playing a gay character." He advocates for authenticity and intention in performances.
Discussing the auditioning process, Locke noted, "There's no way they would have been able to say: 'Are you gay, otherwise you can't audition for this part?' to a 16 year-old. You shouldn't need to know that." He highlights the importance of individual talent over sexual orientation.
While emphasizing the role of representation, Locke stated, "As long as you're playing a part authentically and with the best intentions - you're not just playing a stereotype - then go for it." This reflects his belief in the importance of sincerity in acting.
The controversy surrounding Kit Connor led to discussions about queerbaiting, which Locke is aware of, indicating the pressure on actors regarding their sexual identity. He acknowledges the challenges faced in balancing public perceptions with personal authenticity.
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