“I sort of wedged myself into that part,” Jonathan admitted to Vanity Fair, revealing that he “was so moved by the series and also the graphic novel” that he ended up making it clear to the Heartstopper team that he wanted to appear in some capacity.

He added: “I love the cast. I think they’re brilliant. I remember seeing all of them speak to their own experiences and being like, My God, they’re so erudite and grounded and thoughtful and kind and compassionate in their answers.

“I would be really proud of myself if I could be a part of that as my younger self. Everyone above the age of 40 should be forced to watch it.”

He added that because he has a mutual friend with Heartstopper producer Patrick Walters, he was able to pass along a message which said: “If there’s anything I could do to help and be a part of that story…”

While he’s primarily known for his on-screen roles in the likes of Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers and Broadchurch, Jonathan is also an established theatre actor, winning an Olivier for his supporting performance in the musical Company.