Channel 4 Claims Key Role in Netflix Hit Adolescence Amid Industry Debate

Louisa Compton, head of news at Channel 4, accused Netflix of being 'TV tourists' by benefiting from talent nurtured over years by public service broadcasters (PSBs) like Channel 4, particularly in relation to the hit series Adolescence. She emphasized that PSBs invest in developing talent and tackling timely, complex issues, contrasting with streaming platforms that focus on retrospective content and lack public service obligations. Channel 4 content chief Ian Katz supported these views, highlighting that global streamers exploit an ecosystem built by PSBs without similar accountability or investment. Adolescence, co-created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham—both closely associated with Channel 4—sparked national discussions on masculinity and social media, and has become Netflix's most-watched show this year. The debate also touched on broader challenges facing UK broadcasters, including financial pressures and the reluctance of streamers to co-produce, which threaten the future of culturally British programming. Katz additionally warned about the critical need for accurate coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict to retain younger audiences.