In just a week after its release on Netflix on March 13, 2025, the limited series Adolescence soared to the top of the streaming giant's charts, quickly becoming the #1 show in the Netflix Top 10. Created and written by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, who also stars in the series, Adolescence consists of four gripping episodes that delve into the dark realities of teenage life today.
The narrative centers around the arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, portrayed by Owen Cooper, for the murder of a classmate, Katie Leonard. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that Jamie is a victim of relentless cyberbullying and the toxic influences of incel culture, which have been exacerbated by social media. Each episode is shot in one continuous take, contributing to the immersive and intense storytelling that has captivated audiences.
In its first four days alone, Adolescence garnered an impressive 23.4 million views globally, a figure that skyrocketed to 66.3 million after two weeks. The show has received critical acclaim, holding a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and has been praised for its raw authenticity and powerful performances. Graham, in an interview with Elle, emphasized the show's aim to explore the pressures young men face from their peers and the internet. He stated, "One of our aims was to ask, ‘What is happening to our young men these days, and what are the pressures they face from their peers, from the internet, and from social media?’"
Despite the miniseries telling a self-contained story, the creators have not ruled out the possibility of a second season. Graham mentioned to Variety, "Let's see how the figures are. But yeah, there's the possibility of developing another story." Producer Hannah Walters echoed this sentiment, expressing her enthusiasm for working with the team again to explore more narratives about human nature. She noted, "A prequel to Adolescence, that's certainly not going to happen. But there's so much mileage in the one-shot and so much mileage in investing into human nature again and looking at something else."
Even though Jamie's story is fictional, it is inspired by real-life incidents of crime and knife violence, reflecting the troubling trends in contemporary society. The series has sparked significant discussions around the impact of online culture on young men, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer even commenting on the show's relevance. He expressed concerns about the pressures young boys face but dismissed the idea of creating a new ministerial role specifically for men, arguing that it wouldn't address the root of the problem.
While Netflix has yet to confirm a second season, the overwhelming success of Adolescence indicates that there is a strong demand for more content from its creators. The series has resonated with viewers across the globe, even reaching the top spot in 80 countries, including Saudi Arabia, India, and Australia. Graham remarked on the show's impact, saying, "We had no idea that it would impact socially the way it has, but it seems to have cut through all the race, creed and hierarchical structures of society with the message that it's carrying about our youth."
The show's unique filming technique, which employs long, uninterrupted takes, has been a significant factor in its success. This approach not only enhances the storytelling but also allows for a more deeply engaging viewer experience. Critics have noted that the series excels in its portrayal of complex characters, steering clear of tired teenage stereotypes. The performances, particularly from the young actors, have been lauded for their authenticity and emotional depth.
As discussions around the show continue, many are drawing parallels to other impactful series that have prompted societal change. Shows like Mr Bates VS The Post Office, Threads, and Chernobyl have similarly sparked public discourse and led to significant reforms. Adolescence joins this list as a catalyst for conversations about the radicalization of young men online and the pressures they face in today's digital landscape.
The creators of Adolescence are open to exploring new stories that resonate with contemporary issues, hinting at the potential for follow-up projects that tackle different aspects of human experience. Graham stated, "We’d love to tell other stories with it, but I don't think [another series] of Adolescence is quite right for us." This leaves fans eager for what might come next, as the team behind the series contemplates how to continue their exploration of vital social themes.
For now, viewers can enjoy the first season of Adolescence, which is available for streaming on Netflix. With its powerful narrative and timely subject matter, the series has not only captured audiences but also ignited necessary conversations about the challenges facing today's youth. As the creators reflect on the impact of their work, it remains to be seen how they will harness this momentum to tell new stories that resonate with viewers.
