Netflix’s latest binge-worthy thriller ‘Adolescence’ isn’t just topping the charts — it’s stirring up a storm of conversations around one of the internet’s most toxic subcultures: the manosphere. The gripping series, which skyrocketed to the number one spot across multiple countries, follows the disturbing tale of a 13-year-old boy caught in a murder case while being influenced by radical online communities. Love it or hate it, this show isn’t just entertainment — it’s a wake-up call.
What Is the ‘Manosphere’?
Throughout ‘Adolescence’, audiences are bombarded with cryptic manosphere jargon. If terms like “incel,” “red pilled,” or “sigma male” sound like something out of a dystopian sci-fi movie, that’s because they might as well be. The manosphere — a loose network of online forums and influencers preaching hyper-masculinity, misogyny, and anti-feminism — has moved from shadowy corners of the web onto mainstream platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where its reach is alarmingly vast.
The series’ protagonist, Jamie (played by Owen Cooper), is bullied for being an “incel” — a term thrown around frequently in the show. Meanwhile, Detective Luke Bascombe (Ashley Walters) tries (and mostly fails) to decode the lingo with the help of his son. If viewers are still scratching their heads, they’re not alone.
Journalist Maddy Mussen from the London Evening Standard breaks down these buzzwords, explaining their real-world implications—and why they matter more than ever.
Is Andrew Tate an Incel? Not Quite, But Here’s Why He’s Their Idol
“Incel” stands for “involuntary celibate” — a term used by men who believe they’re doomed to eternal singledom, often blaming women for their lack of romantic success. Some incels have taken their frustration to violent extremes, as seen in the cases of mass shooters Elliot Rodger and Jake Davison.
But where does Andrew Tate fit into this? The controversial influencer, known for his brand of hyper-masculinity, is often associated with incel ideology. However, as Evening Standard clarifies, “Andrew Tate may be idolised by incels for his misogynistic views, but he is insistent that he has sex with lots of women, meaning he isn’t an incel.” Translation: He promotes the mindset but doesn’t fit the definition.
Tate, currently under investigation in Romania for human trafficking and money laundering, remains the poster boy for the manosphere, with his influence seeping into the minds of young men worldwide.
The 80/20 Rule: The Manosphere’s Math on Dating
One of the manosphere’s most cited theories is the “80/20 rule”—the idea that 80% of women only want the top 20% of men, based on looks, wealth, and status. This belief fuels resentment among men who struggle with dating, reinforcing the notion that women are “too picky” and leaving many disillusioned with modern relationships. While ‘Adolescence’ highlights this concept, it’s not as commonly referenced in mainstream manosphere circles as other terms like “sigma male” or “red pilled.”
Red Pilled, Sigma Males, and Other Manosphere Mumbo-Jumbo
One of ‘Adolescence’’s most talked-about references is the term “red pilled.” Borrowed from The Matrix, it originally symbolised awakening to reality. In manosphere circles, however, it’s been twisted to mean seeing “the truth” about women—i.e., that they’re supposedly manipulative and hypergamous.
There’s also the “sigma male,” a term that has evolved into manosphere gold. Alphas are strong, betas are weak, but sigmas? They’re the lone wolves, the outsiders who reject societal norms while still winning at life. The term has gained so much traction that it’s now a staple in pop culture and internet memes alike.
‘Adolescence’ and the Real-World Impact of Manosphere Culture
By seamlessly weaving these toxic ideologies into its storyline, ‘Adolescence’ does more than entertain — it exposes how deeply embedded these narratives have become in youth culture. From cryptic emojis like the red pill, kidney bean, and coffee cup, to incel-driven slang, these concepts are no longer confined to obscure internet forums; they’re actively shaping conversations among teenagers today.
With its gripping plot and sharp social commentary, ‘Adolescence’ isn’t just another Netflix hit — it’s a crucial conversation starter. As discussions around online radicalisation and gender extremism continue, this series proves that what happens in the darkest corners of the web doesn’t always stay there.
