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December 23, 2025
‘I wouldn’t answer Stephen Graham’s calls’: Erin Doherty on dreams, danger and ghosting Adolescence’s creator
She won an Emmy for her electric performance in the Netflix smash hit, but the casting process wasn’t exactly hiccup-free. The actor opens up about a year of success, struggle – and how she nearly became a footballer

TL;DR
- Erin Doherty plays a psychologist interviewing a 13-year-old accused of murder in the Netflix series "Adolescence."
- The show, which deals with teenage radicalization, has garnered nearly 150 million views and sparked widespread cultural discussion.
- Doherty attributes the show's success to its genuine and raw approach, influenced by her collaboration with writer Jack Thorne and director Philip Barantini.
- Her preparation for the role included consulting her former therapist, emphasizing the complexity and humanity of therapists on screen.
- A spontaneous reaction to a cheese and pickle sandwich in one scene became a notable detail for viewers.
- Doherty pursued acting after initially being scouted for professional football.
- She previously starred as Princess Anne in "The Crown" and will lead the upcoming BBC drama "California Avenue."
- Doherty expresses a strong passion for queer stories and culturally relevant narratives, aiming to create complex and authentic content.
- She believes audiences are smarter than often given credit for and can engage with shows that require concentration, contrasting with the "casual viewing" trend.
- Doherty hopes "Adolescence" continues to encourage conversations and connect with viewers.
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