Cousins (2025) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Sexual content is primarily implied and thematic, centering around the sexual assault and murder of the young cousins. While the acts themselves are not graphically depicted, the aftermath and the investigation into the crime—including descriptions and discussions of rape—are a constant, disturbing presence. There is no nudity or explicit sexual activity shown.

The series is predicated on a violent double murder, though the acts themselves are not shown graphically on screen. Scenes related to the discovery of the bodies, the investigation, and later, an informant's murder and threats against the protagonist's family, involve depictions of dead bodies and moments of peril and struggle. The violence is often implied or shown in aftermath, but the nature of the crimes is inherently disturbing and central to the plot.

Infrequent mild to moderate profanity is used by characters under stress or during intense moments. Words such as 'damn' and 'hell' are heard, along with occasional, stronger expletives often in Afrikaans context.

Substance use is present but not a major focus. Characters are occasionally seen drinking alcohol, typically in social settings or as a coping mechanism for grief and stress. This is always in the background and not glamorized.

The pervasive themes of this season are murder, sexual violence, grief, trauma, and the pursuit of justice over decades. The series explores the devastating impact of violent crime on a family and community, the psychological toll on investigators, and the long shadow of unpunished evil. There are strong depictions of emotional distress, obsession with justice, and the corruption within the police force during apartheid.