EastEnders bosses are reportedly developing a spin-off inspired by the critically acclaimed Netflix drama Adolescence. The original series, written by actor Stephen Graham, follows a 13-year-old boy, played by Owen Cooper, who kills a female classmate after being rejected and mocked online. The show was praised for exploring toxic masculinity among teenagers.
According to sources, the BBC soap will create a documentary for BBC Three addressing misogyny and its spread on the internet. The spin-off will feature cast members from EastEnders, and its release will coincide with a related storyline on the main show later this year.
EastEnders Tackles Modern Teen Issues
The soap has already explored similar territory through the character of Joel Marshall (Max Murray), who is involved in an incel-related plotline. Viewers have watched Joel engage in extreme behaviors, including leaking sex footage, assaulting a stranger, and fathering a child with Avani Nandra-Hart.
Emmy Buzz for Adolescence Cast
Owen Cooper, who plays the teenage protagonist, has been nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Anthology Series or Movie at the Primetime Emmys. He will compete against his co-star Ashley Walters, who earned his first Emmy nomination for his role as DI Luke Bascombe.
Speaking about his nomination, Ashley Walters said:
“This is such an honour. This nomination means the world to me — not just as recognition, but as a reminder of how far I’ve come. It’s for everyone who stood by me through the highs and the lows, who believed in me when I needed it most.”
Owen, from Warrington, was chosen from 500 candidates for his debut role in the industry. His parents, Andy and Noreen, have been supportive as he navigates his rapidly rising career.
What to Expect
The planned spin-off will build on EastEnders’ ongoing exploration of modern social issues while leveraging the storytelling and themes of Adolescence. It aims to spark conversation about misogyny, toxic masculinity, and online behavior among young people.
Fans can expect the spin-off to debut later this year in tandem with the main show’s linked storyline, bringing the hard-hitting social commentary of Adolescence to the streets of Walford.
