Sir Keir Starmer has shown his support for the Netflix drama Adolescence and its campaign to be screened in parliament and schools. The series, which centers on the aftermath of a young girl’s murder allegedly committed by a 13-year-old boy, explores how online content influences violent behavior, especially among young men. Starmer, who is watching the show with his family, pointed out the serious issue of violence linked to online influences and stressed the need for action.
The show has attracted attention for its depiction of the rise of incel culture and its potential to spark crucial conversations about online safety and misogyny. After Adolescence creators Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham called for the series to be shown in educational settings, Starmer endorsed the idea, recognizing its importance in raising awareness about the dangers of online content.
The topic has become a key issue for MPs, with many calling for stronger online safety laws. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy confirmed that the government is focused on the Online Harms Act, designed to protect individuals from harmful online content. However, there is increasing pressure on the government to take more bold steps, such as banning smartphones in schools and raising the minimum age for social media consent.
As calls for greater protection from harmful online material grow, Adolescence is seen by many as a powerful tool to raise awareness about the risks young people face in the digital age.
