Joe Locke Dives Into Dark Queer Thriller Black Church Bay

Image Credit: Joe Locke Instagram Account - @joelocke03

Fresh off Heartstopper and Agatha All Along, Joe Locke is taking a sharp turn with his next role , the gay thriller Black Church Bay.

Set in a brooding Welsh seaside town, the series follows Jasper (Locke), a sixth form student whose affair with his teacher spirals into mystery and danger after a shocking disappearance. Directed by Rhys Marc Jones, the show promises atmosphere, secrets, and the messy complexity of hidden identities.

It’s a bold move for Locke, who’s known for tender coming of age storytelling. Here, he’s stepping into morally grey territory exploring power, secrecy and the high stakes of desire when everything is on the line.

With Wales as a haunting backdrop and Tom Cullen co starring as the conflicted teacher, Black Church Bay could mark a turning point in Locke’s career, proving he’s not just the sweet face of queer teen romance, but a leading man ready for darker, riskier roles.