Degrassi vs. Skins

Both the television shows Degrassi: The Next Generation and Skins focus on the startlingly hectic lives of teenagers in Canada and the UK, respectively. Both feature characters that seem likeable and realistic, as well as issues such as drug abuse and sexuality. But I wanted to know, how similar the two shows really are.

Degrassi: The Next Generation stems off of the original Degrassi of the 80’s and features the original’s characters all grown up and the storylines of their own children at Degrassi High. Degrassi is now on its 9th season (holy smokes!) and features some of the same characters that have been on the show since season one (although this season shows these veterans only sparsely as they have graduated and are off to college). Degrassi focuses on students in grades 9-12.

Skins is only on its 4th season, with a whole new cast of characters starting every 2 seasons. These cast members are shown in their UK sixth form college which, as I am told by faithful Wikipedia, means they are between the ages of 16-18. Although we’ve only been acquainted with these characters for one whole season, their individually themed episodes let us get to know them just as well as their Degrassi counterparts.

Both shows features their teens going through normal adolescent changes such as romantic troubles, family issues, problems with drugs and alcohol, etc. But the main difference between the two shows seems that while Degrassi takes a more whole-hearted “let’s set a good example for viewers” attitude, Skins portrays the drug use and blatant sexuality as a normal, natural, and unyielding part of their characters’ lives.



Degrassi definitely has done the most “issues”. With their tagline of “it goes there,” there isn’t a cringe-worthy scenario missing. But as each character deals with their problems, whether it be STDs, school shooting, eating disorders, or sexual abuse, they end up making it through to the other side unscathed and ready for a new plot line. Degrassi teaches teens that these issues can all be overcome with a healthy dose of Mr. Simpson’s advice and an invisible, yet implied, few sessions in therapy.

Skins, on the other hand, does not shy away from the reality of these issues. Drugs, alcohol, and sex are present in every episode. None of the characters consider these problems, but ways of life. While Skins may be rated R where Degrassi is PG-13 in some areas, they realistically portray the fact that yes, partying and promiscuity are part of most young adults’ everyday lives.

So, in the end, Degrassi and Skins aren’t quite that alike at all. Both cover some heavy-duty issues, but while Degrassi may be used for health class presentation (read: Emma gets a social disease), Skins will definitely not be shown in your high school’s curriculum.



By: Jamie Z.

All images from IMDB.com and E4.com