Kit Connor stepped out at the 28th British Independent Film Awards at The Roundhouse on November 30 in London, and yes he did it with a beard. The Heartstopper star appeared alongside Warfare co-stars Will Poulter, Charles Melton, and Joseph Quinn, marking a rare reunion of the films stacked cast. The internet? Immediately unwell.Garlands military drama Warfare had a massive night, taking home four awards, including the coveted Best Ensemble Performance. Connor and his co-stars accepted the honor together, with the film also securing wins for Best Editing (Fin Oates), Best Effects, and Best Sound. A clean sweep for a brutal, character-driven drama and a celebratory moment for a cast that has had fans obsessed since day one.But Kit isnt slowing down. Hes preparing for one of the most emotional releases of his career: the Heartstopper finale film, Heartstopper Forever, which will officially close out Nick and Charlies story. And if that wasnt enough to send queer audiences into a full meltdown, Connor is already deep into production on his next project, A Long Winter.The film, directed by All of Us Strangers visionary Andrew Haigh, also stars Fred Hechinger (Gladiator II) and promises another devastatingly beautiful punch to the soul. Haigh, a four-time BAFTA nominee, is known for crafting stories soaked in yearning, so prepare your tissues now.LONDON, ENGLAND NOVEMBER 30: Kit Connor attends The 28th British Independent Film Awards at The Roundhouse on November 30, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)Plot details surrounding Connors character are still under wraps, but Deadline reports the story centers on Louise, an alcoholic mother who disappears after a fight with her husband, Lester. As a fierce blizzard locks down the town, Lester and their sons Mike (Hechinger) and Tommy embark on a desperate search with help from neighbors and local law enforcement. Its bleak. Its emotional. Its probably going to destroy me.Could A Long Winter be the reason behind Kits new beard? Maybe. Maybe not. Well have to wait and see what Haigh has him cooking up under all that emotional snowfall. Either way, were grateful for the facial-hair era. Thank you, Kit Connor.Source