Poster for State of the Union

State of the Union (2019) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Tom and Louise meet in a pub immediately before their weekly marital therapy session. With each successive episode we piece together how their lives were, what drew them together and what has started to pull them apart.

TV-MA • 2019 • 2 seasons

7.0
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

State of the Union is a dialogue-driven anthology series about couples dissecting their relationships, earning its TV-MA rating almost exclusively for its pervasive and strong language. The short, 10-minute episodes are dense with profanity, including frequent, casual use of "f--k" and "c--t," which is the sole reason for the mature rating in the US. Beyond language, the show features frank and explicit conversations about sex… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Brendan Gleeson
Brendan Gleeson
Patricia Clarkson
Patricia Clarkson
Esco Jouléy
Esco Jouléy
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Is State of the Union appropriate for kids?

State of the Union is a dialogue-driven anthology series about couples dissecting their relationships, earning its TV-MA rating almost exclusively for its pervasive and strong language. The short, 10-minute episodes are dense with profanity, including frequent, casual use of… Read more — free account

Content severity in State of the Union Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Moderate 4/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore None 0/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in State of the Union

Sexual content is confined to explicit discussions about the couple's sex life and infidelity. Louise admits to an affair, and Tom questions the nature of their sexual relationship. These discussions are detailed, candid, and often awkward, covering topics like frequency, satisfaction, and the emotional impact of sex and betrayal. One episode is explicitly titled "Prison Sex," indicating a conversation about this topic.

Violence and gore in State of the Union

There is no physical violence of any kind depicted in this season. The characters engage solely in verbal debate and emotional confrontation within a coffee shop setting.

Language in State of the Union

Strong language is pervasive and constant throughout the season, with frequent use of expletives such as "f**k," "c**t," "sh*t," and "a**hole" in almost every episode. The language is used in heated arguments, out of frustration, and in casual conversation between the couple, reflecting the raw and unfiltered nature of their discussions about their marital problems, directly contributing to the TV-MA rating.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in State of the Union

Characters are frequently shown drinking alcohol in a pub setting before their therapy sessions. The consumption is usually moderate, with Tom and Louise each having one or two drinks per episode. There are no scenes of intoxication or misuse, and alcohol serves as part of the social setting rather than a plot point. One episode title, "Another Drink," alludes to this habit.

Mature themes in State of the Union

The central themes revolve around marital breakdown, infidelity, communication failures, and the complexities of long-term relationships. There are discussions about emotional abuse, gaslighting, resentment, and the disparity in efforts to save the marriage. The series deeply explores the pain, anger, and confusion associated with a dissolving relationship, presenting mature and emotionally intense subject matter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is State of the Union appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests State of the Union is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. State of the Union is a dialogue-driven anthology series about couples dissecting their relationships, earning its TV-MA rating almost exclusively for its pervasive and strong language. The short, 10-minute episodes are…

What age rating does State of the Union have?

State of the Union is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.

What is State of the Union about?

State of the Union is a dialogue-driven anthology series about couples dissecting their relationships, earning its TV-MA rating almost exclusively for its pervasive and strong language. The short, 10-minute episodes are dense with profanity, including frequent, casual use of "f--k" and "c--t," which is the sole reason…

How many seasons does State of the Union have?

State of the Union has 2 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in State of the Union?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across State of the Union.

How violent is State of the Union?

Violence isn't a standout concern across State of the Union per our reviewers.

Is the language in State of the Union appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across State of the Union.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in State of the Union?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across State of the Union.

What mature themes appear in State of the Union?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of State of the Union.

Where can I read the full State of the Union parent guide?

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