The British mini-series Adolescence has overtaken Stranger Things to become Netflix’s second most-watched English-language series ever, amassing 141.2 million views in just 80 days since its March release This achievement pushes Stranger Things Season, which previously held the spot with 140.7 million views in its initial 91 days, into third place—a major shift in the platform’s rankings.
Adolescence tells the gripping story of Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a classmate after being influenced by toxic online communities. The series stands out for its raw portrayal of teen struggles and the dangers lurking in digital spaces, resonating strongly with viewers worldwide Each of the four episodes was filmed in a single continuous take, intensifying the drama and immersing audiences in Jamie’s world.
Despite lacking star power and operating on a modest budget, Adolescence has sparked powerful word-of-mouth buzz and critical acclaim, shining a spotlight on the real-life issues facing today’s youth Its rapid ascent has prompted discussions about using the series as an educational tool in schools to address online safety and social pressures.
While Wednesday remains Netflix’s most-watched English-language series with 252.1 million views, Adolescence’s success signals a shift in what captivates global audiences—moving from supernatural nostalgia to hard-hitting, contemporary drama As fans await the highly anticipated fifth season of Stranger Things later this year, Adolescence has set a new standard for what a breakout Netflix hit can look like.
