Netflix Unveils Owen Cooper’s Haunting Audition Tape for ‘Adolescence’

Netflix’s series Adolescence, a gripping four-part British drama tackling knife crime, toxic masculinity, and the acceptance of violence against women, left millions of viewers spellbound. The series boasts an exceptional cast, with Stephen Graham (also the creator and co-writer), Ashley Walters, Faye Marsay, Erin Doherty, and Christine Tremarco all delivering stellar performances. However, it’s the captivating portrayal of Jamie Miller, a character accused of murdering one of his female classmates, by newcomer Owen Cooper that truly stands out. Praised extensively by fans for his acting skills, Netflix has shared Cooper’s audition tape for the show, and it carries the same chilling impact as his performances in the episodes.

Netflix UK shared Owen Cooper’s audition video on their official platform (previously Twitter). The clip alternates between Cooper’s recorded audition and the corresponding scenes from the series’ final version. In two of the episodes, Cooper makes a memorable appearance, particularly in Episode 3 where he captivates viewers. From his interrogation in Episode 1, it’s barely noticeable how his performance in the audition tape compares to the finished product. When we transition to his monologues in Episode 3, it’s chilling to see the character transformation and development across the two episodes, and this is evident even in the audition.

Prior to his role in “Adolescence”, Owen Cooper hadn’t acted professionally before. Remarkably, the series was produced when he was only 14 years old. Many spectators online find it difficult to accept, considering the exceptional performance he delivers. Not just impressing viewers with his acting skills in the show, but also portraying a complex character during the one-take episodes, which is usually challenging even for experienced actors. However, for a 14-year-old novice like Owen Cooper, it’s truly amazing.

‘Adolescence’ Director Heaps Praise on Owen Cooper’s Performance

Before audiences got to see Owen Cooper’s stellar performance in the Netflix release of “Adolescence”, director Philip Barantini, who handled all four episodes, was already convinced that Cooper would shine brightly. In an interview with Variety, he expressed his amazement, stating, “He left me utterly astounded,” further explaining, “Many actors spend years and years honing their craft, yet they can’t achieve what Owen has – a knack for being present, attentive, and authentic in every moment.

The intense emotional depth of this drama left both the audience (including myself) in tears by its conclusion. Interestingly, even the production team found themselves moved to tears during filming, as Owen Cooper’s powerful performance often reduced them to tears while viewing the tape each day.

Now that he has successfully navigated through adolescence, Owen Cooper is anticipated to receive larger film opportunities in the future. He has already secured his initial movie role, set to co-star with Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaption of Wuthering Heights.

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2025-03-24 20:31