
UnREAL (2015) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
Set against the backdrop of a hit dating competition show, Rachel is a young staffer whose sole job is to manipulate her relationships with and among the contestants to get the vital dramatic and outrageous footage the program's dispassionate executive producer demands.
TV-MA • 2015 • 4 seasons
UnREAL offers a dark, cynical, and mature look behind the scenes of a reality dating show, earning its mixed TV-14 and TV-MA ratings. The series is defined by its intense psychological themes, including the severe manipulation of contestants, mental illness, suicide, and exploitation. Parents should be aware of pervasive strong language (including frequent use of 'f--k' and 'c--t'), numerous sexual situations with discussions and… Sign up for the full guide
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Is UnREAL appropriate for kids?
UnREAL offers a dark, cynical, and mature look behind the scenes of a reality dating show, earning its mixed TV-14 and TV-MA ratings. The series is defined by its intense psychological themes, including the severe manipulation of contestants, mental illness, suicide, and… Read more — free account
Content severity in UnREAL Sign up for season-by-season breakdown
Sex and nudity in UnREAL
Sexual content is frequent and more explicit this season. There are multiple instances of passionate kissing and semi-graphic sex scenes, often with implied thrusting or movement. Many scenes feature male rear nudity. Sexual discussions and innuendo are common, and plot points involve sexual manipulation and a storyline referencing sexual assault, though not depicted graphically.
Violence and gore in UnREAL
Violence is primarily psychological and emotional, with characters engaging in intense verbal abuse and manipulation. There is a brief, intense physical altercation where Rachel is slapped, and a character is involved in a car accident. Self-harm is alluded to through discussions of past attempts and severe emotional breakdowns.
Language in UnREAL
Profanity is frequent and strong, including uses of 'f**k,' 'sh*t,' 'bitch,' 'a**hole,' and 'd**k.' The language reflects the high-stress, often aggressive environment of the show's production. Verbal confrontations are common, with characters using harsh and emotionally charged vocabulary.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in UnREAL
Frequent alcohol consumption is depicted, often as a coping mechanism for the stressed production crew members like Rachel and Quinn, with some characters shown intoxicated. Drug use is present in background party scenes and implied through discussions, escalating towards the end with a plot involving a character's near overdose. Smoking is also shown.
Mature themes in UnREAL
This season delves deeply into themes of psychological manipulation, toxic work environments, and mental health struggles, including depression and suicidal ideation. Race and racial stereotypes are heavily exploited for television ratings. The aftermath of sexual assault is a significant plot point for two characters, and themes of abuse of power, betrayal, and the corrosive nature of reality TV are pervasive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UnREAL appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests UnREAL is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. UnREAL offers a dark, cynical, and mature look behind the scenes of a reality dating show, earning its mixed TV-14 and TV-MA ratings. The series is defined by its intense psychological themes, including the severe…
What age rating does UnREAL have?
UnREAL is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.
What is UnREAL about?
UnREAL offers a dark, cynical, and mature look behind the scenes of a reality dating show, earning its mixed TV-14 and TV-MA ratings. The series is defined by its intense psychological themes, including the severe manipulation of contestants, mental illness, suicide, and exploitation. Parents should be aware of…
How many seasons does UnREAL have?
UnREAL has 4 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.
Is there sex or nudity in UnREAL?
Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across UnREAL.
How violent is UnREAL?
Violence isn't a standout concern across UnREAL per our reviewers.
Is the language in UnREAL appropriate for kids?
Strong language isn't flagged across UnREAL.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in UnREAL?
Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across UnREAL.
What mature themes appear in UnREAL?
Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of UnREAL.
Where can I read the full UnREAL 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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