Adolescence favourite Stephen Graham breaks down amid co-star’s emotional BAFTAs 2026 speech

The Netflix original series Adolescence achieved significant recognition at the BAFTA TV Awards 2026, securing multiple wins and leading the ceremony with a total of 12 nominations.

The production was nominated in several major categories, including best limited drama, best leading actor for Stephen Graham, best supporting actress for Christine Tremarco, and best supporting actor for both Ashley Walters and Owen Cooper.

During the event, the series won two BAFTA Television Craft Awards, with Christine Tremarco and Owen Cooper both succeeding in their respective categories. Cooper also took home the Supporting Actor award for his portrayal of the lead character, Jamie.

One of the most poignant moments of the evening occurred during Christine Tremarco’s acceptance speech for her Television Craft Award. Her words left creator and star Stephen Graham and his wife, Hannah Walters, visibly moved and crying in the audience.

Tremarco used her time on stage to express gratitude to the production team and her close friends.

Oh, my goodness. Thank you so much BAFTA. I feel so privileged to be standing up here holding this BAFTA. I feel so honoured to be a part of adolescence. I hold this BAFTA high to Hannah Walters and Stephen Graham, thank you so much, and thank you to you both to our long time friendship. Christine Tremarco

Tremarco further acknowledged the contributions of writer Jack Thorne, director Phil Bantini, and co-stars including Ashley Walters, Fay, and the young actors Owen and Emily. She also thanked her agent, Jack Collins, and dedicated the award to her sister, Jane.

Owen Cooper, who was 14 years old during his acting debut in the series, also delivered an emotional speech upon winning the Supporting Actor award. Cooper credited his family and fellow cast members, stating he would never forget the experience.

During his acceptance, Cooper cited the influence of his idol, John Lennon, and outlined his personal philosophy on success.

In the words of John Lennon, you won’t get anything unless you have the vision to imagine it. In my eyes, I think you only need three things to succeed in life. You need one, an obsession. Two, a dream, and three, The Beatles. So thank you so much! Owen Cooper

The series has garnered substantial attention from audiences and critics alike, becoming a frequent topic of conversation within political spheres and among families globally. The drama follows 13-year-old Jamie Miller, a schoolboy arrested on suspicion of murdering his classmate, Katie.

Beyond its narrative, Adolescence is noted for its technical ambition, having been filmed with one continuous take per episode.

Stephen Graham emerged as the most nominated individual at the BAFTA TV Awards 2026. In addition to the 12 nominations for Adolescence, Graham’s other production, A Thousand Blows, received seven nominations.

Adolescence is currently available for streaming on Netflix. The service is also accessible via Virgin Media Stream and Sky Glass.