Channel 4 rather than Netflix is ‘proud parent’ of Adolescence, says news boss

Adolescence was co-created by Jack Thorne and the actor Stephen Graham, both of whom have worked with Channel 4 on a series of projects. Photograph: Mike Kemp/In Pictures/Getty Images

A senior Channel 4 figure has accused Netflix of acting like “TV tourists” with the internationally acclaimed show Adolescence.

Louisa Compton, the head of news and current affairs at the broadcaster, said Channel 4 was the “proud parent” of the runaway hit. She said rather than nurture British TV talent, Netflix had benefited from talent developed over many years by Channel 4 and other public service broadcasters.