Staff Reports
The latest media frenzy in Britain perfectly illustrates how the chattering class has lost sight of what truly matters. Prime Minister Keir Starmer found himself under fire from television anchors and pundits—not for his policies or leadership, but for not having watched the Netflix drama “Adolescence” quickly enough. The show, which dramatizes the tragic consequences of online misogyny and youth violence, has become a cultural touchstone for the left-leaning media, who now seem to believe that a politician’s credibility hinges on their familiarity with the latest streaming sensation.
This episode exposes a troubling trend: the elevation of pop culture as the new litmus test for political engagement. Instead of focusing on real-world solutions, media elites are more concerned with whether national leaders are up to date on the latest TV dramas. Starmer, to his credit, has spent his time visiting schools, talking directly to students and teachers about the very issues “Adolescence” purports to address. Yet, he’s been told by media figures that a fictional series offers more insight than firsthand experience—a notion that’s as absurd as it is insulting.
The themes in “Adolescence”—toxic masculinity, online radicalization, and the dangers of social media—are undeniably important. But the idea that watching a dramatized account is somehow superior to engaging with real people is a symptom of a society obsessed with spectacle over substance. Starmer’s approach, which includes proposing internet restrictions for under-16s and supporting the new Online Safety Act, is a concrete step toward protecting children. Yet, the media’s fixation on his TV viewing habits reveals just how misplaced their priorities have become.
What’s more, the push to show “Adolescence” in schools has sparked legitimate concerns among parents and professionals. The drama’s graphic content and lack of educational framework have led many to question whether it’s appropriate for young audiences. Instead of relying on shock tactics and Hollywood scripts, perhaps it’s time to trust educators and parents to guide children through these complex issues with real-world wisdom and common sense.
Ultimately, the obsession with pop culture as a barometer for political leadership is a distraction from the hard work of governing. Leaders should be commended for engaging directly with the public and prioritizing practical solutions over performative gestures. The next time the media demands that politicians binge-watch the latest Netflix hit, we’d do well to remember that true understanding comes from action, not passive consumption of entertainment.
