In just four days, Netflix’s newest mini-series, Adolescence, has achieved an astonishing feat—over 93 million hours of viewing time globally. Premiering on March 13, 2025, this gripping crime drama has quickly soared to the top of the charts in 71 countries, even surpassing some long-established shows on the platform. The series, co-created by Stephen Graham (best known for Peaky Blinders) and Jack Thorne, has been praised for its realism, direction, and emotional depth, making it one of Netflix’s most successful launches of the year.
The plot centers around the Miller family, whose 13-year-old son is arrested for the murder of a classmate, Katie Leonard. While the story isn’t based on real events, its powerful narrative has resonated with viewers worldwide, driving its massive popularity.
“Adolescence” Versus Other Top Netflix Shows
Despite all the buzz surrounding Adolescence, it has already surpassed well-established favorites on Netflix. Among the shows it’s beating are the Colombian thriller “Medusa”, the Harlan Coben adaptation Just One Look, and the sci-fi series “Resident Alien”. Adolescence is also taking the top spot in countries like France, where it has quickly become the most-watched series between March 10 and March 16, 2025.
This series not only stands out because of its intense plot but also because of its highly regarded cast. Uzo Aduba, a star from Orange is the New Black, takes center stage, playing a character whose investigation uncovers deep secrets and brings raw emotion to the fore. Fans of crime dramas like Knives Out will appreciate the complex characters and intricate storytelling woven into each episode.
Other Notable Netflix Hits
Though Adolescence is dominating the top spots, “The Electric State”—a major film production from the Russo brothers, famous for their work on Avengers: Endgame—has made its mark as the most-watched movie on Netflix in France. Featuring a star-studded cast including Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, the film had a strong launch, though it hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations set by its hefty budget, bringing in 53.8 million hours watched globally.
Another notable addition to Netflix’s library, 1883—a prequel to Yellowstone—also entered the Top 5. This western drama, which originally aired in the U.S. in late 2021, has found a new audience, contributing to the growing success of period dramas on streaming platforms.
“Adolescence” Continues to Capture Attention
The continued success of Adolescence is a testament to the appeal of well-crafted crime dramas that blend suspense with emotional depth. Whether it’s the dark mystery of the Miller family’s story or the relatable characters that seem to leap off the screen, the show offers something for every kind of viewer. Netflix has clearly hit the mark with this one, proving once again that quality storytelling and top-tier acting can make a series a global hit.
In the coming weeks, Adolescence is expected to continue its reign on the platform, further solidifying its place in Netflix’s arsenal of hits. With this kind of momentum, it might not be long before the series reaches even greater viewing milestones. If you haven’t already tuned in, now is the perfect time to start.
