British Prime Minister Kier Starmer backed Netflix’s decision to stream Adolescence in schools

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The show has quickly become one of the most talked-about series of the season, breaking viewing records just a week after its release. Critics are raving, audiences are hooked, and now even British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has joined the conversation.

Starmer recently sat down with the show’s co-creator, Jack Thorne, and opened up about how deeply the series resonated with him. He revealed that he’s been watching it with his teenage son and daughter — not just as a form of family bonding, but also to kickstart important conversations around the themes the show explores.

In a heartfelt public statement, Starmer said, “As a father, watching this show with my teenage son and daughter, I can tell you — it hit home hard.” He emphasized the importance of encouraging teens to open up about what they’re watching, how they’re communicating, and the online content they’re exposed to. He also voiced his support for Netflix’s plan to bring Adolescence into school classrooms, saying it could spark the kind of honest discussions that many young people need right now.

So what’s all the fuss about?

Adolescence follows the gripping and emotional story of a 13-year-old boy accused of killing a female classmate, diving into the complex legal, social, and psychological fallout that ensues. It’s raw, intense, and visually stunning — with each episode filmed in a single continuous shot, adding to the tension and realism.

The show was co-created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, both known for their powerful storytelling. Thorne says the goal wasn’t just to entertain, but to get people — especially teens and parents — talking.

He even went a step further, advising parents to limit technology use for children under 14, highlighting the impact screen time and digital culture can have on young minds. “We made this show to provoke a conversation,” he explained. “Taking it into schools wasn’t something we expected, but it’s something we’re incredibly proud of. The real win would be if students started talking to each other about it.”

All episodes of Adolescence are now streaming on Netflix, and it’s clear this isn’t just another binge-worthy drama — it’s a cultural moment.