Poster for The Duchess

The Duchess (2020) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Katherine's a single mom juggling her career, her tween daughter, her relationship with her boyfriend — and pondering getting pregnant with her ex.

TV-MA • 2020 • 1 season

6.5
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

Katherine Ryan's comedy-drama earns its TV-MA rating primarily through its relentless and explicit humor centered on a flamboyant single mother in London. The series is defined by pervasive, very strong language, including near-constant use of 'f--k' and 'c--t,' which is present in almost every scene. There is also extensive, frank, and often crude sexual dialogue, discussions about fertility and insemination, and some sexual… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Katherine Ryan
Katherine Ryan
Rory Keenan
Rory Keenan
Katy Byrne
Katy Byrne
Michelle de Swarte
Michelle de Swarte
MF
Max Fincham
Steen Raskopoulos
Steen Raskopoulos
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Is The Duchess appropriate for kids?

Katherine Ryan's comedy-drama earns its TV-MA rating primarily through its relentless and explicit humor centered on a flamboyant single mother in London. The series is defined by pervasive, very strong language, including near-constant use of 'f--k' and 'c--t,' which is present… Read more — free account

Content severity in The Duchess Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 8/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore None 0/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in The Duchess

Sexual content is frequent, primarily in the form of explicit dialogue, innuendo, and mature discussions. Katherine openly talks about sex, sperm donation, and her lack of a sex life. There are a few scenes depicting sexual situations and implied sex, though no graphic nudity. Mild kissing and passionate embraces occur. A scene involves a character exploring their sexuality with an intimate toy.

Violence and gore in The Duchess

Violence is absent from this season, as the show focuses entirely on interpersonal drama and comedic dialogue. While there are tense verbal confrontations and instances of slapstick-adjacent physical posturing, no one is harmed. The series maintains a focus on high-society aesthetics and domestic life rather than physical conflict or gore.

Language in The Duchess

Strong language is pervasive and constant throughout the season. Words like 'f**k,' 'c**t,' 's**t,' 'a**hole,' and 'bitch' are used frequently and casually in almost every conversation, both by Katherine and other characters. Crude and explicit sexual terms are also common.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in The Duchess

Characters are frequently seen consuming alcohol, particularly Katherine, who drinks wine in social settings and at home. Heavy drinking is occasionally depicted, such as Katherine getting very drunk at a party. There is no drug use beyond alcohol.

Mature themes in The Duchess

The season explores themes of single parenthood, unconventional family structures, co-parenting dynamics with an estranged ex-partner, and female independence. Katherine grapples with the decision to have another child and her identity as a mother and woman, often with a humorous and self-deprecating tone. Issues of consent and personal boundaries are also lightly touched upon during romantic interactions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Duchess appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests The Duchess is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. Katherine Ryan's comedy-drama earns its TV-MA rating primarily through its relentless and explicit humor centered on a flamboyant single mother in London. The series is defined by pervasive, very strong language…

What age rating does The Duchess have?

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

What is The Duchess about?

Katherine Ryan's comedy-drama earns its TV-MA rating primarily through its relentless and explicit humor centered on a flamboyant single mother in London. The series is defined by pervasive, very strong language, including near-constant use of 'f--k' and 'c--t,' which is present in almost every scene. There is also…

How many seasons does The Duchess have?

The Duchess has 1 season covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in The Duchess?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across The Duchess.

How violent is The Duchess?

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

Is the language in The Duchess appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across The Duchess.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in The Duchess?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across The Duchess.

What mature themes appear in The Duchess?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of The Duchess.

Where can I read the full The Duchess parent guide?

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