Netflix’s latest miniseries, Adolescence, has rapidly become a global sensation since its release on March 13, 2025.
The four-part drama delves into the harrowing story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, portrayed by newcomer Owen Cooper, who is arrested for the murder of his classmate, Katie Leonard.
The series, starring Stephen Graham, has captivated audiences worldwide, topping Netflix charts in numerous countries and sparking widespread discussions about its themes and storytelling approach.
Notably, each episode is filmed in a single continuous take, a directorial choice that intensifies the narrative’s realism and emotional impact.
The show’s unflinching exploration of youth violence and the influence of online subcultures has led many viewers to question: Is Adolescence based on a true story?
Here is everything we know about the series and whether it is inspired by true events.
Is Adolescence based on a true story?
While Adolescence is not a direct retelling of a specific true story, its creators drew inspiration from real-life incidents of youth violence in the UK.
In an interview with Netflix Tudum, co-creator Stephen Graham was particularly moved by a series of tragic events involving young boys committing violent acts against girls.
He stated, “There was an incident where a young boy [allegedly] stabbed a girl.”
Graham continued, “It shocked me. I was thinking, ‘What’s going on? What’s happening in society where a boy stabs a girl to death? What’s the inciting incident here?’ And then it happened again, and it happened again, and it happened again. I really just wanted to shine a light on it, and ask, ‘Why is this happening today? What’s going on? How have we come to this?’ ”
These real-world occurrences prompted Graham and co-creator Jack Thorne to craft a narrative that examines the societal factors contributing to such tragedies, including the impact of online misogyny, male rage, and the “manosphere” on impressionable youths.
The series delves into incel culture, bullying, social meida and other themes that is impacting adolescent culture.
Adolescence: Will there be a second season?
Despite the show’s immense popularity and critical acclaim, the creators have indicated that Adolescence was conceived as a self-contained miniseries.
Jack Thorne expressed that the story reached its natural conclusion within the four episodes, stating, “For me and Stephen, the story told in Adolescence is over.”
However, he also mentioned an interest in exploring the one-shot filming technique in future projects, suggesting that while Jamie Miller’s story has concluded, the creative team remains open to new narratives that employ similar storytelling methods.
The theme could explore true crime involving crimes similar to the fictional incident portrayed in the series.
As of now, neither Netflix nor the show’s creators have announced plans for a second season. Fans should keep their eyes peeled as Netflix loves true crime and series inspired by it.
Adolescence is currently available for streaming on Netflix.