Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, so many streaming services attract the attention of kids and teens globally. Constantly introducing the multi-seasoned series that captivate the interest of the youth, marketed to entertain with their dramatic storylines and plots. The hottest new and famed actors portraying their favorite characters, further investing their audience. However, the teens we see on the screen, are oftentimes less youth full in reality. 

Netflix’s Outer Banks, released in March of 2020, has accumulated millions of viewers who fell in love with the adventurous show. Outer Banks has inspired many trends throughout the year and many viewers aspire to live like the show’s cast. 16 year old heart-throb and star, John B, is played by 27 year old actor, Chase Stokes. Over a 10 year age difference from character to actor. When fans became aware of this immense age gap, it sparked questioning of Netflix’s casting rationale. 

This age difference can be identified in most modern TV series. Including Netflix’s Riverdale, released in early 2017. The starring friend group begins the show as sophomores at Riverdale High, at the ripe age of 15. The series star, 19 year old KJ Apa, who portrays 15 year old Archie Andrews, is now finishing up the show at 23. For viewers, seeing older actors as young character’s has become the norm. Most are aware and used to the inaccurate presentation of teens and continue to enjoy their favorite shows, unaware of the damage this potentially is causing to their perception. 

Continuously watching series that portray teenagers as grown and developed adults has immensely impacted the self image of teens worldwide. Comparing our lives, and appearances to that of fictional characters who are meant to illustrate individuals our own age can be extremely damaging. The false image the media feeds teenagers through these TV shows is constantly disregarded and defined as normal, while in reality, it needs to be fixed.

  Casting younger actors with an age that approximates more closely to their role should be necessary in the production of shows starring young characters. 30 year old men acting as 16 year old boys as opposed to a teenager should not be defined as normal and is contributing to the false portrayal of youth in the media.