Poster for The Old Man

The Old Man (2022) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Dan Chase absconded from the CIA decades ago and now lives off the grid. When an assassin arrives and tries to take Chase out, the old operative learns that to ensure his future he now must reconcile his past.

TV-MA • 2022 • 2 seasons

7.2
400+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This espionage thriller earns its TV-MA rating with frequent, sudden, and brutal violence, as well as pervasive strong language. The central plot follows an ex-CIA operative on the run, leading to intense and bloody fight scenes involving guns, knives, and trained attack dogs. Viewers can expect to see close-up depictions of strangulation, stabbings, and gunshot wounds. Profanity is constant, with numerous uses of "f--k" and other… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Jeff Bridges
Jeff Bridges
John Lithgow
John Lithgow
Alia Shawkat
Alia Shawkat
Navid Negahban
Navid Negahban
Jacqueline Antaramian
Jacqueline Antaramian
Amy Brenneman
Amy Brenneman
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Is The Old Man appropriate for kids?

This espionage thriller earns its TV-MA rating with frequent, sudden, and brutal violence, as well as pervasive strong language. The central plot follows an ex-CIA operative on the run, leading to intense and bloody fight scenes involving guns, knives, and trained attack dogs… Read more — free account

Content severity in The Old Man Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Strong 6/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity None 0/10
Violence/Gore Intense 10/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in The Old Man

Sexual content is minimal. There are no explicit sex scenes or nudity. Brief romantic or suggestive dialogue may occur, but it is not central to the narrative and rarely escalates beyond implied intimacy or innocent flirtation.

Violence and gore in The Old Man

Violence is frequent, graphic, and impactful. Expect intense shootouts, close-quarters combat, and an array of weapon use including guns, knives, and explosives. Characters are stabbed, shot, and brutally beaten, often with visible blood, gore, and detailed injuries. Deaths are common and often shown without flinching. The violence can be sustained and emotionally disturbing, particularly in combat sequences and assassination attempts.

Language in The Old Man

Language is frequent and strong, with multiple uses of the 'f-word' in almost every episode, along with other expletives such as 'sh*t,' 'hell,' and 'a**hole.' Religious exclamations like 'Jesus Christ' are also used. The profanity is consistent with the intense, high-stakes nature of the show.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in The Old Man

Alcohol use is occasionally depicted, usually as characters having drinks in social or contemplative settings. There is no significant plot around substance abuse or illicit drug use, but characters are seen drinking wine or hard liquor. There are no depictions of illegal drug use or glorification of addiction.

Mature themes in The Old Man

Mature themes abound, centering on identity, loyalty, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of espionage. Emily grapples with her true parentage and the implications for her identity. Characters confront past atrocities, the psychological toll of their careers, and the lingering effects of trauma and regret. Loss, grief, and the struggle for redemption are central, with many characters living with deep emotional scars. The constant threat of harm and the pressure of life-or-death decisions contribute to an…

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Old Man appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests The Old Man is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This espionage thriller earns its TV-MA rating with frequent, sudden, and brutal violence, as well as pervasive strong language. The central plot follows an ex-CIA operative on the run, leading to intense and bloody…

What age rating does The Old Man have?

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

What is The Old Man about?

This espionage thriller earns its TV-MA rating with frequent, sudden, and brutal violence, as well as pervasive strong language. The central plot follows an ex-CIA operative on the run, leading to intense and bloody fight scenes involving guns, knives, and trained attack dogs. Viewers can expect to see close-up…

How many seasons does The Old Man have?

The Old Man has 2 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in The Old Man?

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

How violent is The Old Man?

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

Is the language in The Old Man appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across The Old Man.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in The Old Man?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across The Old Man.

What mature themes appear in The Old Man?

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

Where can I read the full The Old Man parent guide?

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

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