A Netflix show sparks debate on social media and teen boys

The Netflix British drama Adolescence, which is about a teen boy charged with killing a girl from his school, has topped viewing charts in the UK and US and stirred conversations about online teen safety.

Since its release on March 13, the mini-series has garnered unprecedented views and rave reviews. It became the most-watched show in the first 11 days, with 66.3 million views. Its first episode was watched by 6.45 million people, the most for any show in the UK.

Praised for its gripping one-shot filming technique, the first shot of Adolescence starts with the police breaking into a home to arrest a 13-year-old boy and follows his family’s ordeal.

The show highlights how manosphere influencers affect teens. The four episodes explore alienation, bullying, and the dangers of toxic masculinity and misogyny-filled internet culture.

With standout performances by newcomer Owen Cooper, who plays the teen, and co-creator and actor Stephen Graham, playing the dad, it has sparked debates about social media’s impact on boys and young men. Even British Prime Minister Keir Starmer weighed in, saying it highlights a deeper issue society must confront.

While parents praise the show for sparking honest conversations with teens, some critics have accused it of unfairly scrutinizing boys.