In the three weeks since the release of "Adolescence" on Netflix, the drama centered on a 13-year-old boy accused of killing a schoolgirl after encountering misogynistic content online has gained significant popularity. The show's success has also elevated Owen Cooper, who plays the teenager Jamie Miller, to stardom.
Despite his newfound fame, Cooper, 15, returned to high school in northern England on Monday. In a recent video interview, he described his first day back as “a bit mad,” noting the attention he received from younger students. He mentioned that the following day was better, with only “a bit of bother.”
During the interview, Cooper elaborated on the nature of the attention, clarifying that it was not serious but involved younger children approaching him to shout his name before running off. Stephen Graham, who portrays Owen’s father, expressed relief upon hearing this, referring to it as “just some silly bollocks.”
The dynamic between the two characters has been highlighted by critics as a contributing factor to the show's success. Additionally, the series has sparked discussions regarding the regulation of children's access to social media and the potential banning of smartphones in schools.
Cooper and Graham also addressed the political implications of the show, with Cooper sharing his views on smartphone usage among young people. He expressed concern over younger children using platforms like Instagram and TikTok, advocating for adherence to age restrictions.
Graham reflected on the tragic events that inspired the show, emphasizing the importance of addressing such issues through drama. He noted that the motivation behind the project was to shine a light on serious societal problems.
Cooper's audition for the role of Jamie was memorable for Graham, who recalled how Cooper's presence stood out during the casting process. Their connection during the audition led Graham to feel a strong bond with Cooper, likening his performance to that of a seasoned actor.
The third episode, which features an intense interview between Jamie and a psychologist, has garnered particular attention. Cooper admitted to initial discomfort with the script but credited his co-stars and director for creating a supportive environment that allowed him to fully engage with the material.
Graham praised Cooper's ability to channel complex emotions for the role, describing his performance as nuanced and intricate. The two actors discussed their rehearsal process, which included extensive preparation to ensure they could handle any mistakes during filming.
The series employs a unique filming technique, with each episode shot in a single uninterrupted take. Graham explained that this approach was inspired by the desire to create a show similar to the film "Boiling Point." Cooper expressed enthusiasm for the one-shot format, indicating a preference for this style of filming.
As for the future of "Adolescence," Graham indicated that while it is currently a stand-alone series, there is a possibility for a sequel that would explore a different storyline.