The show was created by father-and-son television writers Bryan Elsley and Jamie Brittain for Company Pictures, The show went on to be a critical success as well as a ratings winner within its target demographic.
Over its initial six-year run, Skins proved to be atypical of ongoing drama series in that it replaced its primary cast every two years.
Neil Morrissey and Naomi Allisstone act as Cassie's parents, Marcus and Margeritte Ainsworth.
Mark Monero acts as Jal's father, Ronny Fazer, and (Josette Simon) as her estranged mother, Elaine.
As well as the regular cast, there are several important recurring characters.
Effy Stonem (Kaya Scodelario) is Tony's younger sister, and shares many of her brother's qualities.
Cassie attempts to hide her own struggles with mental health while her flamboyant parents ignore her in favour of their new baby.
Chris Miles (Joe Dempsie) is the party animal of the group.
Each episode generally focuses on a particular character and the struggles they face in their life.
The episodes are named after the featured character.
"Posh" Kenneth (Daniel Kaluuya) goes to the same college as the main cast and often spends time with the boys.
Madison "Mad" Twatter (Stephen Walters) features as Sid's emergency drug dealer, Doug (Giles Thomas) is a senior teacher at Roundview College, and British comedian and co-writer Josie Long appears as the college's careers counsellor.
Jal Fazer (Larissa Wilson) is a sensible girl with a talent for playing the clarinet.