Jeremy Allen White praises UK’s social media ban for kids under 16, says his own children don’t have phones

Jeremy Allen White has voiced support for the UK government’s plan to ban social media for children under 16. The actor shared his views at the premiere of the final season of ‘The Bear’ in lower Manhattan.

He spoke to ‘Variety’ on Monday night at Nine Orchard. White called the decision “great.” He said social media platforms are extremely addictive.

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“I think there needs to be a correction,” White said. He added that the habit will not disappear completely. But he believes clear boundaries are needed at some point.

White also said he hopes society shifts back toward a more analog way of living. He noted that technology is moving fast. He called the pace “a little scary.”

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UK announces ban on major platforms

The UK confirmed on Monday that it will move ahead with a ban on children under 16 using apps like TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube. The announcement followed growing concern over social media’s effect on young users.

The news came just days after the first trailer dropped for Aaron Sorkin’s upcoming film ‘The Social Reckoning’. The movie examines claims that Facebook ignored internal warnings about the platform’s impact on young people’s mental health. It centers on Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

White limits his own children’s screen time

White is a father of two. His children are seven and five years old. Neither child owns a personal phone or tablet. He said they sometimes use his devices or their mother’s.

White made similar comments last fall. He told ‘Variety’ he wants to keep his kids away from social media for as long as possible.

Survey shows parents are divided

A recent Pew Research survey found that most American parents still allow young children to use smartphones or tablets. More than 64 percent of parents let kids 12 and under use these devices.

At the same time, many parents have doubts. Nearly half believe smartphones do more harm than good. Eight in ten parents said the risks of social media outweigh the benefits.