Stephen Graham's newest series Adolescence, which tells the story of a 13-year-old boy accused of brutally murdering a classmate, has quickly become a sensation within the streaming landscape. Released on Netflix on March 13, 2025, the show has garnered significant attention, earning praise for its gripping storyline and distinct filming style that showcases the complexities of modern British society.
In Adolescence, Graham portrays Eddie Miller, whose son Jamie, played by Owen Cooper, is suspected of stabbing a classmate named Katie, portrayed by Emilia Holliday. Alongside Graham, his wife, Hannah Walters, plays Mrs. Bailey, a teacher at Bruntwood Academy. The couple has not only collaborated on this project but also share a production company, Matriarch Productions, which successfully produced the series.
Hannah, a talented actress and producer, had a brief cameo appearance in the series, which serves as yet another example of their joint work. The duo's collaboration began with the BAFTA-nominated film Boiling Point in 2021 and extends to other projects, including the Disney+ miniseries A Thousand Blows.
Historically, Graham and Walters met at the Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance in Kent, where their friendship blossomed into a romance that eventually culminated in their marriage on June 6, 2008. Their partnership has been solidified both personally and professionally, achieving notable success in the entertainment industry.
Communities in Ibstock, Leicestershire, swarmed with excitement as the couple cut the ribbon at the reopening of a local doctor's surgery, highlighting their active participation in local events. The pair, known for their down-to-earth demeanor, reside in a modest home valued at £450,000, reflecting the couple's commitment to remaining grounded despite their fame.
The first episode of Adolescence drew in over 2.7 million viewers within just two days of its release, hinting at its potential to become a bestseller on Netflix. Following its release, it received a perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics and viewers praising the series' realistic portrayal of contemporary British issues.
The show captures the audience's attention with its unique filming style, shot primarily in continuous single takes. Filmed in South Kirkby, West Yorkshire, over a period of six months in summer 2024, the rigorous process demanded significant preparation, with each episode taking extended periods and multiple attempts to achieve a flawless take.
Among the cast, Ashley Walters takes on the role of Detective Inspector Luke Bascombe, who leads the investigation into Jamie's alleged crime. Graham expressed that the core idea for Adolescence stemmed from his reaction to alarming news articles about young boys committing violent acts against young girls. “I read an article about a young boy who’d stabbed a young girl to death, and it just, you know, it made me feel cold,” he stated during interviews.
Graham's commitment to addressing societal issues is also apparent in his recent statements regarding knife crime. He aims to generate conversations around pressing topics like parenting and education through his platform and prominent roles. “It takes a village to raise a child,” he noted, adhering to the belief that societal factors contribute to such tragedies.
Co-writer Jack Thorne echoed Graham's sentiments, emphasizing the need for authentic discussion around male aggression and the circumstances that fostered it. During a radio interview, he mentioned, “I thought it was an extraordinary thing to look at, and I thought it was a very important thing to look at,” reinforcing the thematic depth of the series.
The entire production process, particularly for the filming of episodes, was incredibly intense. Episode one took ten takes to refine, eventually using the second attempt. Meanwhile, the team faced a formidable challenge with episode two, requiring fourteen distinct takes to capture the desired accuracy and emotional resonance.
Despite the pressure, Graham and his fellow cast members found camaraderie and support through the arduous filming process. Ashley Walters humorously reflected on his experience, admitting, “I f**ing regretted saying yes to the show after gruelling hours on set,” but acknowledged the professional growth that resulted from it.
As the series continues to unfold, viewers have consistently praised Owen Cooper's compelling performance. Graham has expressed admiration for Cooper, recognizing his raw talent. “I think that's him,” Graham stated after Cooper’s initial audition, noting the promising young talent’s potential.
Overall, Adolescence* not only positions itself as compelling entertainment but also sparks essential dialogues surrounding the modern pressures faced by youth today. With Graham and Walters at the helm, the production thrives on authenticity, honesty, and a keen understanding of its critical themes. As they navigate both their personal and professional lives together, their story reinforces the acknowledgment that every tale, much like the characters they portray, is woven with struggles, growth, and ultimately, resilience.
