Creator Alice Oseman shares on social media that the character of Michael is one of the main characters from her first novel entitled Solitaire.
“So I was very nervous and excited to begin the search for our Michael,” Oseman shared on Instagram.
The author of the Heartstopper graphic novels describes Michael as a "quirky, eccentric optimist with a sunny disposition." Oseman says it was a challenge to cast Michael and find an actor who could convey the vision she had for the character in the books.
“But then Darragh (Hand, photo) came along and warmed our hearts, made us all laugh so much, and perfectly complimented Jenny Walser’s Tori Spring. I can’t wait for you to meet Michael in season 3!” she added.
Oseman published Solitaire in 1994 and it centers on Michael and Tori, Charlie's sister in the Heartstopper series of graphic novels. Tori is played by Jenny Walser in the live-action adaptation.
Heartstopper characters Nick and Charlie originated in Solitaire before their story was expanded upon in Oseman's 2015 novel Nick and Charlie. Oseman would later focus entirely on Nick and Charlie in the Hearstopper graphic novel series that explores their relationship alongside their friends.
Kit Connor and Joe Locke play Nick and Charlie respectively and will return next year for season three.