Poster for Tipping the Velvet

Tipping the Velvet (2002) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

A tempestuous tale of love and life as a naïve girl discovers both romance and pain in the hidden, decadent world of bohemian London in the 1890s. Nan Astley embarks on a voyage of emotional and sexual discovery with Kitty Butler, a music hall male impersonator.

TV-MA • 2002 • 1 season

6.8
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This British miniseries follows a naïve young woman's journey of sexual and emotional discovery within the lesbian subculture of 1890s London. 'Tipping the Velvet' is intended for mature audiences due to its frequent and explicit sexual content, which was groundbreaking for its time on television. Scenes include simulated lesbian sex (including implied oral sex and use of dildos), full female nudity, and plotlines involving… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Rachael Stirling
Rachael Stirling
Keeley Hawes
Keeley Hawes
Jodhi May
Jodhi May
Anna Chancellor
Anna Chancellor
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Is Tipping the Velvet appropriate for kids?

This British miniseries follows a naïve young woman's journey of sexual and emotional discovery within the lesbian subculture of 1890s London. 'Tipping the Velvet' is intended for mature audiences due to its frequent and explicit sexual content, which was groundbreaking for its… Read more — free account

Content severity in Tipping the Velvet Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

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

Sex and nudity in Tipping the Velvet

This season features graphically depicted sexual content, including full nudity (breasts, buttocks, and some brief pubic nudity) in multiple scenes. There are explicit lesbian sex scenes, implied oral sex, and scenes of prostitution, including sexual situations involving men and women, and women disguised as men. Themes of sexual exploitation and objectification are prominent as Nan navigates her relationships and circumstances.

Violence and gore in Tipping the Velvet

Violence is mild but present. A man attempts to rape a woman but is thwarted. There is a scene where one woman strikes another with a candlestick, causing visible blood. Some implied physical aggression and threats occur in the context of Nan's difficult circumstances and encounters with patrons.

Language in Tipping the Velvet

Mild profanity is present, including occasional uses of 'damn' and 'hell.' There is one instance of the 'f-word' alongside other period-appropriate expletives reflecting the settings and characters' frustrations or anger.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Tipping the Velvet

Frequent depictions of characters smoking cigarettes, often in social settings like music halls and parties. Alcohol consumption, including wine and brandy, is also common, with some characters shown becoming intoxicated. Opium use is implied in later episodes as Nan descends into poverty.

Mature themes in Tipping the Velvet

Strong themes of class struggle, poverty, and identity are explored as Nan loses her privilege and must survive on the streets. There are significant themes of sexual identity and exploration, particularly centered around lesbian relationships and same-sex love in a restrictive historical period. Loneliness, betrayal, and resilience are also central to her journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tipping the Velvet appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Tipping the Velvet is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This British miniseries follows a naïve young woman's journey of sexual and emotional discovery within the lesbian subculture of 1890s London. 'Tipping the Velvet' is intended for mature audiences due to its frequent…

What age rating does Tipping the Velvet have?

Tipping the Velvet is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.

What is Tipping the Velvet about?

This British miniseries follows a naïve young woman's journey of sexual and emotional discovery within the lesbian subculture of 1890s London. 'Tipping the Velvet' is intended for mature audiences due to its frequent and explicit sexual content, which was groundbreaking for its time on television. Scenes include…

How many seasons does Tipping the Velvet have?

Tipping the Velvet has 1 season covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Tipping the Velvet?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Tipping the Velvet.

How violent is Tipping the Velvet?

Violence isn't a standout concern across Tipping the Velvet per our reviewers.

Is the language in Tipping the Velvet appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Tipping the Velvet.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Tipping the Velvet?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Tipping the Velvet.

What mature themes appear in Tipping the Velvet?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Tipping the Velvet.

Where can I read the full Tipping the Velvet parent guide?

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