Poster for Back

Back (2017) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Estranged foster-brothers Stephen and Andrew vie to take over the family business following the death of their father.

TV-MA • 2017 • 2 seasons

7.2
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This dark British comedy follows a neurotic man, Stephen, whose life unravels when his charming and manipulative former foster brother, Andrew, reappears after their father's death. The series earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive strong language, including frequent use of 'f--k' and 'c--t,' and constant, heavy alcohol consumption by nearly all characters in its pub setting. While there is no violence or nudity, the show… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

David Mitchell
David Mitchell
Robert Webb
Robert Webb
Penny Downie
Penny Downie
Jessica Gunning
Jessica Gunning
Oliver Maltman
Oliver Maltman
Olivia Poulet
Olivia Poulet
Louise Brealey
Louise Brealey
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Is Back appropriate for kids?

This dark British comedy follows a neurotic man, Stephen, whose life unravels when his charming and manipulative former foster brother, Andrew, reappears after their father's death. The series earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive strong language, including frequent use… Read more — free account

Content severity in Back Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 10/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Moderate 4/10
Violence/Gore Moderate 4/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in Back

Mild sexual innuendo is present, primarily through dialogue. There are occasional jokes or mentions of past relationships and infidelity, but no explicit sexual content or nudity is shown on screen. The focus is on character relationships rather than physical intimacy.

Violence and gore in Back

Violence is largely absent. There is a minor comedic incident involving Stephen accidentally knocking someone over, and a pub fire occurs off-screen, with the characters dealing with the aftermath. No graphic or sustained violence is depicted.

Language in Back

Frequent profanity is present, including strong language such as 'f**k' and its derivatives, 'sh*t,' 'b*stard,' and 'hell.' The language is used casually in dialogue to reflect frustration, anger, or general colloquial speech among the adult characters.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Back

Alcohol consumption is frequent and central to the pub setting. Characters are often seen drinking pints of beer, wine, or spirits, sometimes to excess, though rarely to extreme intoxication beyond a tipsy state. Andrew often uses drinking as a coping mechanism, and Stephen's attempts to take control sometimes involve reducing his own alcohol intake. Smoking is occasionally seen.

Mature themes in Back

The season explores themes of grief, family dynamics, rivalry, and deception. Stephen struggles with his father's death and his perceived role as the family's successor, while Andrew's ambiguous past and manipulative behavior create a constant undercurrent of unease and paranoia. Mental health is subtly touched upon through Stephen's anxiety and declining state. Abandonment is a core theme, with Andrew's past as a foster child.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Back appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Back is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This dark British comedy follows a neurotic man, Stephen, whose life unravels when his charming and manipulative former foster brother, Andrew, reappears after their father's death. The series earns its TV-MA rating…

What age rating does Back have?

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

What is Back about?

This dark British comedy follows a neurotic man, Stephen, whose life unravels when his charming and manipulative former foster brother, Andrew, reappears after their father's death. The series earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive strong language, including frequent use of 'f--k' and 'c--t,' and constant…

How many seasons does Back have?

Back has 2 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Back?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Back.

How violent is Back?

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

Is the language in Back appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Back.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Back?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Back.

What mature themes appear in Back?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Back.

Where can I read the full Back parent guide?

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