Poster for Big Little Lies

Big Little Lies (2017) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

The tale of three mothers of first graders whose apparently perfect lives unravel to the point of murder.

TV-MA • 2017 • 2 seasons

7.9
1K+
Average rating by Bontent members
Sign up for full access
Age
17+

Big Little Lies earns its TV-MA rating with its frank and often intense depiction of adult themes, making it suitable only for mature viewers. The series centers on the intertwined lives of wealthy mothers, but beneath the surface glamour, it explores serious issues including frequent, brutal domestic violence, the psychological aftermath of sexual assault, and marital infidelity. There is also strong language, including uses of 'f--k'… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon
Shailene Woodley
Shailene Woodley
Laura Dern
Laura Dern
Alexander Skarsgård
Alexander Skarsgård
Adam Scott
Adam Scott
James Tupper
James Tupper
Zoë Kravitz
Zoë Kravitz
Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep
Iain Armitage
Iain Armitage
Jeffrey Nordling
Jeffrey Nordling
Kathryn Newton
Kathryn Newton
Sign up to get 40,000+ Bontent parent guides
Unlock ratings, reviews, recommendations and guides for all content types

Is Big Little Lies appropriate for kids?

Big Little Lies earns its TV-MA rating with its frank and often intense depiction of adult themes, making it suitable only for mature viewers. The series centers on the intertwined lives of wealthy mothers, but beneath the surface glamour, it explores serious issues including… Read more — free account

Content severity in Big Little Lies Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 8/10
Language Intense 8/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 8/10
Violence/Gore Intense 10/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in Big Little Lies

Sexual content is moderate to strong. There are explicit non-graphic sex scenes, including portrayals of rough, non-consensual sex within a marriage (implied as marital rape). Nudity includes brief instances of female breasts and buttocks, and a prosthetic penis is briefly shown. Infidelity is a significant recurring plot point, with multiple characters engaging in extramarital affairs and discussing sexual acts explicitly.

Violence and gore in Big Little Lies

The season contains strong, disturbing depictions of domestic violence. Celeste is subjected to severe physical and psychological abuse by her husband, Perry, including being choked, thrown, punched, and kicked, resulting in visible bruises. There are also flashbacks to a past sexual assault and a climactic scene involving a fatal fall caused by a violent altercation, with some blood shown on the body.

Language in Big Little Lies

Frequent strong language is used throughout the season, including multiple uses of 'f**k,' 'sh*t,' 'b***h,' and 'c**t.' Characters use profanity to express anger, frustration, and in casual conversation, reflecting the intense emotional stakes and adult themes.

Mature themes in Big Little Lies

Major themes include domestic abuse, sexual assault, infidelity, single motherhood, social class divisions, and the psychological impact of trauma. The series explores the ripple effects of violence on individuals and families, secrets within a community, and the search for justice and healing. Grief, toxic relationships, and emotional manipulation are also prominent.

Bontent Member Reviews

Register for free to join the conversation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Big Little Lies appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Big Little Lies is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. Big Little Lies earns its TV-MA rating with its frank and often intense depiction of adult themes, making it suitable only for mature viewers. The series centers on the intertwined lives of wealthy mothers, but beneath…

What age rating does Big Little Lies have?

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

What is Big Little Lies about?

Big Little Lies earns its TV-MA rating with its frank and often intense depiction of adult themes, making it suitable only for mature viewers. The series centers on the intertwined lives of wealthy mothers, but beneath the surface glamour, it explores serious issues including frequent, brutal domestic violence, the…

How many seasons does Big Little Lies have?

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

Is there sex or nudity in Big Little Lies?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Big Little Lies.

How violent is Big Little Lies?

Violence isn't a standout concern across Big Little Lies per our reviewers.

Is the language in Big Little Lies appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Big Little Lies.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Big Little Lies?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Big Little Lies.

What mature themes appear in Big Little Lies?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Big Little Lies.

Where can I read the full Big Little Lies parent guide?

Create a free Bontent account to unlock season-by-season notes, filter by your kids' ages, and save titles to your watchlist.

Sign up for access to 40,000+ parent guides.