Fresh Air
'Adolescence' Co-Creator/Actor Asks Not Whodunnit, But Why
Mar 31, 2025
Stephen Graham, a British actor known for his roles in 'This Is England' and 'The Irishman', stars in the thought-provoking miniseries 'Adolescence'. He discusses the dark inspiration behind the show, focusing on youth crime and its roots. Graham reveals the unique filming technique used—shot in a single take—enhancing the raw emotional impact. He also reflects on fatherhood and the societal challenges it entails, providing a personal touch to the storytelling. Additionally, he shares insights from his role as a bare-knuckle boxer in 'A Thousand Blows'.
44:50
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights how 'Adolescence' explores childhood violence by examining the root causes such as toxic masculinity and environmental influences.
- Stephen Graham's portrayal of a father confronting societal expectations and personal struggles adds depth to the narrative's exploration of masculinity.
Deep dives
Exploring Toxic Masculinity in 'Adolescence'
'Adolescence' tackles the complex issues surrounding childhood violence and its roots in toxic masculinity. The miniseries, co-created by Stephen Graham, centers on a family grappling with the arrest of their 13-year-old son for murder. Rather than focusing on guilt, the narrative delves into the underlying factors contributing to such tragedies, including familial influences, social media, and bullying. It raises critical questions about societal accountability for young men's actions, prompting viewers to reflect on how our environment shapes behavior.
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