Erin Doherty, best known for her standout role as Princess Anne in The Crown, has taken on a new and ambitious challenge in the one-shot episode of Adolescence, a gripping drama series that delves into the complexities of teenage life. The episode, which unfolds in a single, uninterrupted take, has been hailed as a groundbreaking achievement in television storytelling. Doherty, who both stars in and co-produced the episode, recently opened up about the experience, describing it as one of the most intense and rewarding projects of her career.
Adolescence explores the turbulent world of adolescence, tackling themes such as identity, mental health, and the pressures of growing up in a hyper-connected world. The series has been praised for its raw and authentic portrayal of teenage life, and the one-shot episode is no exception. Set in real-time, the episode follows a group of teenagers as they navigate a pivotal night that will change their lives forever. Doherty plays the role of a guidance counselor who becomes entangled in the emotional chaos of the evening, offering a nuanced performance that anchors the episode.
The decision to film the episode in a single take was a bold creative choice, one that required meticulous planning, precision, and an extraordinary level of commitment from the cast and crew. Doherty admitted that the process was unlike anything she had ever experienced before. “I’ve never been a part of a project this intense,” she said. “The level of focus and coordination required was immense, but it was also incredibly exhilarating. There’s something about the immediacy of a one-shot that forces you to be completely present in every moment.”
The concept of a one-shot episode is not entirely new to television, but it remains a rare and challenging feat. The format demands flawless execution, as any mistake or misstep could require starting over from the beginning. For Doherty and her co-stars, this meant weeks of rigorous rehearsals and a deep understanding of the script, the blocking, and the emotional beats of the story. “We had to know every single detail inside and out,” Doherty explained. “There was no room for error, and that level of pressure was both daunting and thrilling.”
One of the most striking aspects of the episode is its ability to capture the raw, unfiltered emotions of its characters. The single-take format creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing viewers into the world of the story in a way that feels almost voyeuristic. Doherty credits the format for allowing the actors to fully immerse themselves in their roles. “When you’re filming in a single take, there’s no cutting away or resetting. You have to live in the moment and trust that the story will unfold as it should. It’s a very different way of working, but it’s also incredibly freeing.”
The episode’s narrative revolves around a critical incident at a high school party, where tensions between the characters reach a boiling point. Doherty’s character, the guidance counselor, serves as a stabilizing presence amidst the chaos, offering a glimpse of hope and understanding in a world that often feels overwhelming. Her performance is both subtle and powerful, capturing the quiet strength of someone who has dedicated their life to helping others. “I was drawn to this character because of her compassion and resilience,” Doherty said. “She’s someone who genuinely cares about these kids, even when they push her away. That dynamic was really interesting to explore.”
The production of the one-shot episode was a logistical marvel, requiring the coordination of multiple departments to ensure that every element of the episode flowed seamlessly. From the lighting and sound design to the camera movements and actor performances, every detail had to be perfectly synchronized. Doherty praised the crew for their dedication and expertise, calling them the unsung heroes of the project. “The crew worked tirelessly to make this episode possible,” she said. “They were the backbone of the entire process, and their commitment was truly inspiring.”
For Doherty, the experience of working on the one-shot episode was not only a professional challenge but also a deeply personal one. She revealed that the themes of the episode resonated with her on a profound level, particularly its exploration of mental health and the struggles that young people face today. “Adolescence is such a formative time in our lives, but it’s also incredibly difficult,” she said. “I think a lot of people can relate to the feeling of being lost or overwhelmed during that period. This episode really captures that sense of vulnerability and uncertainty, and I think it’s an important story to tell.”
The episode has already sparked conversations among viewers, many of whom have praised its bold storytelling and emotional depth. Doherty hopes that it will encourage audiences to reflect on their own experiences and foster greater empathy for those going through similar struggles. “I think storytelling has the power to connect us in ways that nothing else can,” she said. “If this episode can help even one person feel seen or understood, then I think we’ve done our job.”
Looking back on the experience, Doherty described it as a transformative moment in her career. “This project pushed me in ways I never expected,” she said. “It challenged me to dig deeper and trust myself in ways I hadn’t before. I’m so proud of what we’ve created, and I’m grateful to have been a part of something so special.”
As for what’s next, Doherty remains tight-lipped but optimistic. She expressed a desire to continue taking on projects that challenge her as an artist and allow her to explore new creative territories. “I’m always looking for roles that push me out of my comfort zone,” she said. “I think that’s where the most growth happens, both as an actor and as a person.”
The one-shot episode of Adolescence is a testament to the power of innovative storytelling and the dedication of a talented team. For Erin Doherty, it represents a bold step forward in her career and a reminder of why she fell in love with acting in the first place. “At the end of the day, it’s all about telling stories that matter,” she said. “And I feel incredibly lucky to be able to do that.”