Keir Starmer has actually responded to Adolescence: Here’s why it matters

Keir Starmer has been watching the Netflix drama Adolescence with his kids, and he has some thoughts to share. The drama has sparked national conversations, particularly around the “crisis in masculinity” and the rise of incel culture among young men. As the storyline delves into the struggles of a 13-year-old boy accused of murder and explores how toxic influences affect his views on women and society, many have called for the UK government to appoint a “minister for men.”

While this may sound like a straightforward solution, Starmer wasn’t fully convinced. In a recent interview on BBC Radio 5 Live, Prime Minister Starmer responded to Adolescence by sharing his concerns about the troubling pressures young boys face but rejected the idea of creating a new ministerial role just for men. He argued that such an approach wouldn’t address the root of the problem.

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Instead, he supported former England manager Gareth Southgate’s perspective on the topic. (Yes, they had been in touch!) Southgate, in a previous speech, highlighted that young men often lack positive role models, which makes them susceptible to online influencers who promote questionable views about women and society. Starmer agreed with Southgate’s sentiments. “I know Gareth. I thought his lecture was really powerful, and it resonated with many parents,” Starmer stated. He advocated for more discussions around these issues, and it seemed Southgate had played a role in that conversation.

So, what’s the importance of role models?

When it came to identifying real role models, Starmer suggested looking closer to home. “I always turn to sports for this. Footballers and athletes serve as role models. However, if you ask young people, they’re more likely to identify someone from school—like a teacher, a coach, or someone in their community.” So, while the idea of a “minister for men” hasn’t been on the table for now, Starmer responded to Adolescence by pushing for positive influences in the lives of boys. It’s clear that this is just the beginning of an important conversation about the mental health and wellbeing of young men.

Adolescence is on Netflix now. For all the latest Netflix news, drops, quizzes and memes like The Holy Church of Netflix on Facebook. 

Featured image credit: Netflix