“Adolescence”: Watch the Audition Tape That Landed Owen Cooper the Role in Record-Breaking Series
“Adolescence” on Netflix has taken the streaming world by storm, breaking records and sparking global discussions. The British series has become a cultural touchstone, dominating ratings and resonating with audiences for its raw portrayal of teenage struggles, especially through the intense performance of newcomer Owen Cooper.
Owen Cooper: Star of “Adolescence”
Cooper, who had never worked as an actor before landing the role of Jamie Miller, has quickly become a breakout star. His audition tape, which Netflix released, showcases the raw talent that earned him the role in this gripping series.
In the tape, Cooper delivers two powerful scenes—one in which his character, Jamie, is advised by a lawyer before his police interview, and another in which Jamie is analyzed by psychologist Briony Ariston (played by “The Crown’s” Erin Doherty). In one memorable moment, Cooper’s frustration boils over as he shouts, “I don’t wanna f sit down,” throwing a chair in a burst of anger. This raw energy is a perfect preview of the emotional intensity Cooper brings to the series.
“Adolescence” Themes and Record Breaking Achievements
“Adolescence” has redefined crime dramas, focusing on themes like social media’s influence and teenage masculinity. Directed by Philip Barantini, the four-part limited series is a masterclass in storytelling. It has broken UK streaming records, becoming the first-ever UK streaming show to top the weekly British ratings chart and amassing the biggest audience for a streaming TV show in a single week. In its debut week alone, the first episode attracted nearly 6.5 million viewers, surpassing the most-watched linear show, “The Apprentice”, which had 5.8 million viewers.
The success of “Adolescence” is a demonstration of the power of streaming in 2025, marking a turning point for digital platforms. The series’ success isn’t limited to the UK—globally, Adolescence topped the charts with 24 million views and nearly 100 million hours watched in its first week, showing its widespread appeal and cultural impact.
“Adolescence” Sparks Conversation
The series’ portrayal of teenage masculinity and vulnerability has sparked conversations worldwide. It challenges stereotypes, offering a raw and authentic look at what it means to grow up in today’s digital world. The show has become a must-watch, igniting debates and discussions on social media about the pressures young people face, particularly in an age dominated by social media.
Filmed using an innovative technique, “Adolescence” features long continuous shots that draw viewers deeper into the emotional turmoil of its characters. This immersive style, combined with the powerful performances, particularly from Cooper, has earned the show critical acclaim.
The future looks bright for both the series and its star. “Adolescence” has not only made its mark on television but also opened doors for young actors, proving that raw, authentic representation is more powerful than ever in today’s media landscape. With its cultural impact, “Adolescence” is leading the charge in reshaping how we see youth on screen and paving the way for more stories that resonate with audiences of all ages.
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