Poster for Sex and the City

Sex and the City (1998) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Based on the bestselling book by Candace Bushnell, Sex and the City tells the story of four best friends, all single and in their late thirties, as they pursue their careers and talk about their sex lives, all while trying to survive the New York social scene.

TV-MA • 1998 • 6 seasons

7.4
2K+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This iconic series about four women navigating friendship and romance in New York City earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive and explicit sexual content. Nearly every episode features multiple simulated sex scenes with female nudity (breasts, buttocks, and some full-frontal), as well as extremely graphic and frequent discussions about a wide variety of sexual acts. The dialogue is filled with strong profanity, including… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Sarah Jessica Parker
Sarah Jessica Parker
Kim Cattrall
Kim Cattrall
Cynthia Nixon
Cynthia Nixon
Kristin Davis
Kristin Davis
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Is Sex and the City appropriate for kids?

This iconic series about four women navigating friendship and romance in New York City earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive and explicit sexual content. Nearly every episode features multiple simulated sex scenes with female nudity (breasts, buttocks, and some… Read more — free account

Content severity in Sex and the City Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 10/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore Moderate 4/10
Mature Themes Intense 8/10

Sex and nudity in Sex and the City

Sexual content is pervasive and often explicit, though graphic nudity is generally limited to male buttocks and some female upper nudity. Sexual situations are discussed explicitly, frequently involve characters engaging in intercourse or foreplay, and sometimes depict sex acts without full nudity. Themes include infidelity, fetishes (e.g., golden showers), open relationships, and casual sex, alongside discussions of sexual health and performance issues like erectile dysfunction. Dildos and vibrators are…

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Violence and gore in Sex and the City

Violence is nearly absent this season. There are no significant instances of physical altercations or graphic injuries depicted. An episode briefly mentions Carrie getting mugged, but the event itself is not shown and is used more as a plot device for character reflection.

Language in Sex and the City

Profanity is frequent and strong, with words like 'f**k,' 'sh*t,' and various sexual expletives used regularly throughout conversations. Characters often use crude language to express frustration, surprise, or to emphasize points, particularly during emotional arguments or sexual discussions. Milder expletives are also common.

Mature themes in Sex and the City

Mature themes include infidelity, commitment issues, infertility, and mental health struggles. Carrie grapples with the ethical implications and emotional toll of her affair with Big. Charlotte navigates the complexities of marriage, including prenuptial agreements and her husband's impotence. Miranda deals with relationship compromises and a chlamydia diagnosis, while Samantha explores polyamory and age-gap relationships. The show also touches on themes of race and prejudice within relationships.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sex and the City appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Sex and the City is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This iconic series about four women navigating friendship and romance in New York City earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive and explicit sexual content. Nearly every episode features multiple simulated sex…

What age rating does Sex and the City have?

Sex and the City is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.

What is Sex and the City about?

This iconic series about four women navigating friendship and romance in New York City earns its TV-MA rating primarily for pervasive and explicit sexual content. Nearly every episode features multiple simulated sex scenes with female nudity (breasts, buttocks, and some full-frontal), as well as extremely graphic and…

How many seasons does Sex and the City have?

Sex and the City has 6 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Sex and the City?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Sex and the City.

How violent is Sex and the City?

Violence isn't a standout concern across Sex and the City per our reviewers.

Is the language in Sex and the City appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Sex and the City.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Sex and the City?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Sex and the City.

What mature themes appear in Sex and the City?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Sex and the City.

Where can I read the full Sex and the City parent guide?

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