Netflix Adolescence stars issue statement after Starmer backs drama being played in schools: ‘We did it!’
Netflix Adolescence stars have reacted to the news that the hard-hitting drama will be made available to all UK secondary schools for free viewing.
The decision was made following a Downing Street roundtable discussion between show bosses, campaigners and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The programme, which follows the story of a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a female classmate, has sparked a national dialogue about how social media affects young people.
The British government is backing the initiative, which includes educational resources to help teachers, parents, and carers discuss the themes raised in the series.
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Anne Mensah, Netflix VP UK Content, said: “Adolescence has captured the national mood, sparking important conversations and helping articulate the pressures young people and parents face in today’s society.”
“We’re incredibly proud of the impact the show has made and are delighted to be able to offer it to all schools across the UK through Into Film+,” she added.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer shared his personal experience with the show, saying: “As a father, watching this show with my teenage son and daughter, I can tell you – it hit home hard.”
“It’s an important initiative to encourage as many pupils as possible to watch the show. As I see from my own children, openly talking about changes in how they communicate, the content they’re seeing, and exploring the conversations they’re having with their peers is vital,” he continued.
Adolescence director Philip Barantini took to Instagram to celebrate the initiative, reposting a news story covering the announcement with the caption: “We did it!”
Show star Jo Hartley also spoke out, declaring: “Incredible! Adolescence to be taught in secondary schools in the UK.”
Hartley starred as Mrs Fenumore, a teacher at Jamie’s (played by Owen Cooper) school, who struggles to deal with the trauma of the situation while attempting to help DI Bascombe (Ashley Walters) and DS Frank’s (Faye Marsay) investigation.
The 53-year-old actress had earlier spoken out about the impact of the series.
“I’ve been so overwhelmed by such powerful messages over the last few days. THANK YOU. Thank YOU!!!” she wrote on Instagram.
“It’s been wonderful to see this show make such an impact on the world.”
Addressing the show’s impactful themes, she continued: “Adolescence asks questions… It presents us with a fatal situation caused by one unconscious act of violence – actions have consequences.
“Over the four ‘one shot’ episodes we see how it devastates not only a family, but a whole community. If Adolescence saves one life, it will have worked,” Hartley added. (sic)