Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’ Shatters U.K. Viewing Records in Just Days!

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The recently added Netflix crime drama, titled “Adolescence,” has been setting new records. In just one week, Episode 1 has become the most-watched streaming TV show in the U.K., topping the British ratings charts. This makes it one of the most successful series for British viewers. The viewership remains strong throughout the four episodes, indicating the compelling nature and gripping storyline of “Adolescence,” which explores the motive behind a young boy’s decision to commit murder.

According to Deadline and the BBC, the show “Adolescence” has outperformed popular BBC series such as “The Apprentice” and “Death in Paradise.” The viewing figures were disclosed by the ratings agency Barb, revealing that around 6.5 million viewers tuned in for the first episode during its initial week of release (from March 10 to March 16). Notably, “Adolescence” set this record within three days of becoming available, as it premiered on March 13.

Following Episode 1, the Netflix drama consistently outperformed BBC’s top shows. For instance, Episode 2 drew 5.9 million viewers, pushing BBC One’s “The Apprentice” and “Death in Paradise” to third and fourth places respectively. Episodes 3 and 4 continued this trend with 5.1 million and 4.6 million viewers each. In the Netflix universe, “Adolescence” broke the record set by “Fool Me Once,” which attracted 6.3 million viewers in the U.K. within a week in January of the previous year. The crime drama featuring Stephen Graham and Owen Cooper’s acting debut has garnered more popularity in the U.K. than recent hits like “The Gentlemen” and “Baby Reindeer.

On Netflix’s worldwide list of top-rated TV series, Adolescence outranks shows such as Running Point, the miniseries Zero Day starring Robert De Niro, Toxic Town, Beauty in Black, and American Murder: Gabby Petito.

‘Adolescence’ Is a Technical Marvel That’s Also Extremely Relevant

The story unfolds around Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy (portrayed by Owen Cooper), who finds himself arrested for a murder he claims innocence of. In a dramatic turn of events, the police burst into the Miller household, seize Jamie, and transport him to the police station, where both Jamie and his father are interrogated. Jamie vehemently denies any involvement in the heinous act, but the second episode hints at the possibility of others being involved in the murder of a young girl. By Episode 3, the situation becomes clearer. In Episode 4, we witness the ripple effects of Jamie’s alleged crime on the Miller family as they struggle to come to terms with an incident that has irrevocably altered their lives. Each segment is filmed in one continuous shot and unfolds in real-time.

Although not directly derived from one true event, Adolescence is strikingly authentic and moving. It delves into topics such as bullying, excessive social media usage, and the complexities of teenage masculinity, all told through the perspective of a vulnerable young protagonist. The series has garnered praise from both viewers and critics. To date, it boasts a 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes from 76 critic reviews, while audience scores have been rated at 72%.

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2025-03-25 21:01