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After Life (2019) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Tony had a perfect life. But after his wife Lisa suddenly dies, Tony changes. After contemplating taking his own life, he decides instead to live long enough to punish the world by saying and doing whatever he likes from now on.

TV-MA • 2019 • 3 seasons

7.9
1K+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This dark comedy follows a man spiraling into a deep depression after his wife's death, and its TV-MA rating is driven by its most challenging elements. The profanity is severe and pervasive, with constant and casual use of words like "f--k" and "c--t" in every episode. Thematically, the series is relentlessly focused on grief and loss, with the main character frequently contemplating suicide; a death by heroin overdose is also a key… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Ricky Gervais
Ricky Gervais
Tom Basden
Tom Basden
Kerry Godliman
Kerry Godliman
David Bradley
David Bradley
Joe Wilkinson
Joe Wilkinson
Tony Way
Tony Way
Diane Morgan
Diane Morgan
Ashley Jensen
Ashley Jensen
Tommy Finnegan
Tommy Finnegan
Jo Hartley
Jo Hartley
Penelope Wilton
Penelope Wilton
David Earl
David Earl
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Is After Life appropriate for kids?

This dark comedy follows a man spiraling into a deep depression after his wife's death, and its TV-MA rating is driven by its most challenging elements. The profanity is severe and pervasive, with constant and casual use of words like "f--k" and "c--t" in every episode… Read more — free account

Content severity in After Life Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 10/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore Intense 10/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in After Life

Sexual content is mild. Discussions of sexual acts and sexual preferences are frequent and candid, often for comedic effect or to highlight characters' personalities, such as Matt's therapist or Tony's interactions with a sex worker. There are brief, non-graphic depictions of sexual activity under sheets (no nudity), and a scene where Tony is shown naked from behind in a shower (brief, non-explicit).

Violence and gore in After Life

Violence is minimal and non-graphic. There are brief mentions of past physical altercations. One scene involves a character reacting aggressively in a verbal confrontation, but it does not escalate into physical violence. The focus remains on emotional and verbal conflict rather than physical altercations.

Language in After Life

Very strong language is pervasive throughout the season, with frequent use of 'f***,' 'c***,' 's***,' and other profanities, primarily from Tony and other characters in everyday conversation and frustration. The use of 'c***' is generally in the British slang sense referring to an unpleasant person rather than a derogatory sexual term. Insults and crude terms are common, aligning with the show's dark comedic tone.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in After Life

Substance use is moderate. Tony frequently drinks alcohol, sometimes to excess, including having whiskey for breakfast. Characters are seen smoking cigarettes and marijuana. A significant plot point involves Tony's contemplation of using heroin and later giving money to a drug addict who subsequently overdoses on heroin, which is depicted on screen.

Mature themes in After Life

The overarching themes of grief, loss, and mental well-being continue to be central. Tony frequently vocalizes his thoughts of suicide and depression, though he is slowly moving towards acceptance. The season also explores themes of friendship, finding purpose, loneliness, and supporting others struggling with mental health issues, including a character contemplating suicide due to terminal illness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is After Life appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests After Life is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This dark comedy follows a man spiraling into a deep depression after his wife's death, and its TV-MA rating is driven by its most challenging elements. The profanity is severe and pervasive, with constant and casual…

What age rating does After Life have?

After Life is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.

What is After Life about?

This dark comedy follows a man spiraling into a deep depression after his wife's death, and its TV-MA rating is driven by its most challenging elements. The profanity is severe and pervasive, with constant and casual use of words like "f--k" and "c--t" in every episode. Thematically, the series is relentlessly focused…

How many seasons does After Life have?

After Life has 3 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in After Life?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across After Life.

How violent is After Life?

Violence isn't a standout concern across After Life per our reviewers.

Is the language in After Life appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across After Life.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in After Life?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across After Life.

What mature themes appear in After Life?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of After Life.

Where can I read the full After Life parent guide?

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