Netflix’s Adolescence has made history as the first streaming show to claim the top spot in the UK’s weekly TV ratings, surpassing established BBC programs such as The Apprentice and Death in Paradise.
The first episode of the drama was viewed by an impressive 6.45 million people within its first week, according to official figures from ratings body Barb. This sets a new record for the most-watched streaming TV show in the UK in a single week, narrowly overtaking Fool Me Once, which reached 6.3 million views in January 2024.
The show’s overwhelming success marks a significant shift in television viewing habits, highlighting the growing dominance of streaming platforms over traditional broadcasters.
The series continued to perform exceptionally well throughout the week, with its second episode drawing in 5.94 million viewers. In comparison, BBC One’s The Apprentice and Death in Paradise each attracted close to 5.8 million, securing the third and fourth spots on the weekly rankings.
Adolescence continued its strong showing with its third episode, which was watched by 5.14 million people, while the fourth and final installment garnered 4.65 million views. These figures underscore the show’s remarkable impact, firmly establishing Netflix as a major player in the UK television landscape.
Given that approximately 17 million UK households have Netflix subscriptions, the streaming service’s ability to rival—and even surpass—legacy broadcasters is becoming increasingly apparent.
Since its premiere on March 13, Adolescence has rapidly emerged as one of the most talked-about series of the year. The drama has captivated both critics and audiences with its gripping narrative, which revolves around a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a schoolmate.
The show’s intense storytelling is heightened by its unique filming technique, with each episode shot in a single continuous take. This innovative approach has been widely praised, further cementing the show’s reputation as a groundbreaking achievement in television.
The cast has also received high acclaim, particularly newcomer Owen Cooper, who delivers a compelling performance as young Jamie, alongside the seasoned Stephen Graham, who portrays his troubled father.
Beyond its entertainment value, Adolescence has sparked a broader national discussion about the influence of social media and the growing impact of “manosphere” influencers on young men.
The show’s themes have resonated deeply with viewers, prompting politicians and educators to weigh in on the issues it raises. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the topic in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, stating, “There’s a reason why the debate has suddenly sparked into life—a lot of people who work with young people at school or elsewhere recognize that we may have a problem with boys and young men that we need to address.”
The series’ thought-provoking subject matter has fueled conversations about the challenges faced by young people in the digital age, making it more than just a television hit—it has become a cultural phenomenon.
With its record-breaking numbers, Adolescence now joins the ranks of the highest-rated TV shows of 2024, standing alongside BBC successes such as The Traitors, Call The Midwife, and Gavin & Stacey: A Fond Farewell. While these programs continue to dominate traditional television ratings, Adolescence has proven that streaming platforms can compete at the highest level.
Notably, its viewership figures are still behind ITV’s Mr Bates vs The Post Office, which captured an astonishing 10 million viewers in its debut week. Nevertheless, Adolescence represents a pivotal moment in UK television history, illustrating that streaming platforms are no longer just alternatives to traditional broadcasters but serious contenders for the top spot.
The inclusion of streaming data in Barb’s official ratings since November 2021 has allowed for a clearer picture of shifting viewer preferences. As streaming services continue to expand their influence, the success of Adolescence could signal a new era where on-demand content consistently rivals or even outperforms scheduled television programming.
With its blend of powerful storytelling, innovative cinematography, and socially relevant themes, Adolescence has set a new benchmark for what streaming television can achieve. Its triumph may pave the way for more high-profile streaming productions to break into the mainstream, challenging long-standing norms in the UK television industry.
