In a recent tweet, HBO Max unveiled that Degrassi: The Next Generation is now streaming on HBO Max. If you aren’t familiar with the hit drama series that set teen hearts ablaze with its heartthrobs and enthralling storylines, let me put things into perspective. Before the world got a lethal dose of teen social issues with the HBO Max original Euphoria, Degrassi: The Next Generation–a Canadian teen drama originally aired in the U.S. between 2002 – 2015. The show was a hit on Nickelodeon subsidiaries TeenNick and The N–on which it became one of the highest-rated shows on the network. After 14 seasons, Degrassi: The Next Generation was ultimately canceled but not before spawning a spin-off series Degrassi: Next Class.
Degrassi: The Next Generation Is Must Watch TV
Degrassi: The Next Generation was an award-winning series that earned dozens of accolades, including several Primetime Emmy nominations. The show broke down barriers for teen dramas on tv; according to IMDB, Degrassi: The Next Generation was the first show to feature a teen transgender character in television history. During its successful 13 year run, the show covered a plethora of teen social issues, including domestic violence, STDs, underaged drinking, addiction, eating disorders, mental illness, school shootings, and teen abortion; an episode that was so controversial it was initially banned from the air in the U.S. Degrassi: The Next Generation introduced us to some of the stars we all know and love today, most famously Drake, Nina Dobrev (The Vampire Diaries), and Cassie Steele who’s portrayal of the rebellious Manny Santos often gets compared to Euphoria’s Maddy Perez. Throughout its 300+ episodes, the show had several TV specials and guest appearances, including Jason Mewes, Kevin Smith, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Keke Palmer.
