Stephen Graham reveals the ‘ultimate’ goal of ‘Adolescence’

Stephen Graham, the co-creator, co-writer, and star of the hit Netflix series “Adolescence,” is on a mission to spark important conversations between parents and children through the show. In an exclusive interview with The Post at the Gotham Television Awards, Graham expressed his desire to create a platform for discussions that need to happen within families.

Since its premiere in March, “Adolescence” has garnered nearly 150 million views worldwide, making it a resounding success. The series follows the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, played by Owen Cooper, who is arrested for the murder of a girl in his school. Through Jamie’s journey, the show delves into the impact of social media on young male teens and their perceptions of women.

The show has not only captivated audiences but has also earned praise for shedding light on the prevalent issue of violence against women and girls in the United Kingdom. London’s Lord Mayor, Sadiq Khan, commended the series for addressing this epidemic.

While social media plays a significant role in shaping young minds, Graham believes that accountability lies not only with the internet but also with parents, schools, and society as a whole. He emphasized the need for everyone to take responsibility for the environment in which children grow up, including the influence of social media companies.

Despite being a work of fiction, “Adolescence” draws inspiration from real-life crimes in Great Britain, as Graham revealed. The series stemmed from Graham’s shock and disbelief upon reading about a young boy who had fatally stabbed a girl in a newspaper article. This prompted him to explore the underlying causes of such tragic incidents and the societal factors at play.

At the heart of “Adolescence” is the question of why such events occur, particularly during the tumultuous phase of adolescence. Graham highlighted the complexity of this age and the need for collective accountability in raising children. He emphasized the impact of the digital age on today’s youth, where access to the world through the internet can significantly influence their thoughts and behaviors.

“Adolescence” has received critical acclaim and accolades, including wins at the Gotham Awards for Breakthrough Limited Series, Outstanding Lead Performance, and Outstanding Supporting Performance. The show is available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to engage with its thought-provoking themes and spark meaningful conversations about the challenges faced by today’s youth.