5 Fascinating Facts About the Netflix Hit Series “Adolescence”

Introduction: The Popular Series Taking Over Netflix

“Adolescence” is currently the most-watched series on Netflix, captivating audiences with its gripping storyline and emotional depth. Created by acclaimed writer Jack Thorne, known for works like “Skins” and “His Dark Materials,” the British drama features actor Stephen Graham, famous for his roles in “Snatch” and “The Chef.” With millions of viewers tuning in worldwide, this intense four-episode series delves into the unsettling investigation surrounding 13-year-old Jamie Miller (portrayed by Owen Cooper), who faces accusations of murdering a classmate.

Key Characters and Plot Overview

As the story unfolds, Jamie’s family struggles to support him, with his father Eddie (Stephen Graham) grappling with the situation. Detectives Bascombe (Ashley Walters) and Frank (Faye Marsay) are on the case, while psychologist Brioni Ariston (Erin Doherty) works to uncover the truth behind these tragic events. If you are one of the 24.3 million viewers who enjoyed “Adolescence,” you might have missed some intriguing details about the show. Here are five fascinating tidbits you probably didn’t know.

1. An Improvised Moment in Episode 3

In the third episode, a poignant session occurs between Jamie and psychologist Briony. Their conversation quickly intensifies, leading Jamie to lose his composure. Interestingly, an unplanned moment arises during a scene at 10:44, where Jamie unexpectedly yawns. Briony teasingly asks, “Am I boring you?” and Jamie chuckles in response.

Owen Cooper later shared on “The One Show” that this yawning was spontaneous, a result of fatigue from filming. Erin Doherty improvised her reply and then returned to the script for the scene. This moment was captured in the second take during the fifth and final day of shooting. Cooper recalls, “Erin’s line brought back memories and made me smile, as it wasn’t in the script.”

2. Brad Pitt’s Involvement as a Producer

Fans of the series may be surprised to learn that Brad Pitt is among the producers of “Adolescence.” The series was produced under his company, Plan B Entertainment, which he founded in 2002. Despite his name on the credits, co-creator Jack Thorne noted that Pitt did not engage in the creative process but expressed great enthusiasm for the project. Thorne shared an amusing anecdote about their brief interaction: “I was on a Zoom call early, and he entered saying, ‘Hi, I’m Brad.’ I replied, ‘Yes, I know.'”

3. The Haunting Voice of the Victim in Episode 2

In a heartfelt moment at the end of the second episode, Jamie’s father honors the memory of Katie, the victim, by laying flowers. This emotional scene is beautifully enhanced by a cover of Sting’s “Fragile,” performed by a children’s choir from the school where the episode was filmed. Emilia Holliday, who plays Katie, lends her voice to this poignant moment, a creative decision inspired by director Philip Barantini.

4. A Large Cast of Extras in Episode 2

According to Netflix, Episode 2 featured a staggering 370 extras: 320 adolescents representing the students and 50 adults as teachers, parents, and patrons. The episode predominantly unfolds in Jamie’s school and required a total of 13 takes. The final scene selected for the episode was captured during the last day of shooting, creating many memorable moments for the cast and crew.

5. A Personal Touch in the Series Finale

The finale of “Adolescence” culminates in a deeply emotional scene where Jamie’s father, Eddie, breaks down in his son’s room. He gently places Jamie’s stuffed toy under the covers and utters, “I’m sorry, son. I should have done better.” This poignant moment was infused with extra sentiment for Graham, as he revealed that his family was present during filming. His wife, Hannah Walters, and their children secretly placed photographs in Jamie’s wardrobe, along with a touching note that read, “We are very proud of you; we love you, Dad.” This personal touch heightened the emotion during the final scene.

Conclusion: “Adolescence” Now Streaming on Netflix

The series “Adolescence” is now available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to experience its compelling narrative and well-crafted characters. As audiences continue to engage with this impactful drama, the behind-the-scenes stories only add to its allure.