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The United Kingdom's Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has supported the idea of screening Netflix’s latest drama, Adolescence, in schools. He believes the series sheds light on the "emerging and growing problem" of online misogyny and youth violence, making it an important conversation starter for young people and policymakers alike.
Calls for Screening in Schools and Parliament
During a parliamentary discussion, MP Annelise Midgley raised concerns about the increasing influence of online male radicalisation and violence against girls. She mentioned that the creators of Adolescence are calling for screenings in both schools and Parliament to raise awareness and spark meaningful discussions.
In response, Starmer revealed that he has been watching the series with his family. "At home, we are watching Adolescence with our children. I've got a 16-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl, and it’s a really powerful drama to watch," he said. He also described the violence depicted in the show as “abhorrent” and stressed the need to address the issue before it worsens.
Government’s Response to Youth Violence
Starmer highlighted ongoing government efforts to combat these concerns, including the deployment of specialised rape and sexual offences teams in police forces to handle emergency calls related to such crimes. However, he insisted that these issues are not just a matter of law enforcement but also a "cultural problem" that needs to be tackled at multiple levels.
Creator Jack Thorne’s Stand
Jack Thorne, the writer of Adolescence, has been vocal about the need for urgent action. “I want it to be shown in schools, I want it to be shown in Parliament. It’s crucial because this is only going to get worse. It’s something that people need to be talking about. Hopefully, that’s what drama can do,” he said in an earlier interview.
What Adolescence Is About
The four-part Netflix series, co-written by and starring Stephen Graham, follows a family whose world turns upside down when their teenage son is arrested for the brutal stabbing and murder of a female classmate. The show explores themes of toxic masculinity, online radicalisation, and the growing influence of harmful social media trends.
Featuring actors like Owen Cooper, Stephen Graham, and Ashley Walters, Adolescence aims to spark conversations about the dangers young people face in the digital world.
Where to Watch Adolescence
Adolescence is currently streaming on Netflix, gaining attention for its raw and thought-provoking storytelling.
