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Yellowstone (2018) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Follow the violent world of the Dutton family, who controls the largest contiguous ranch in the United States. Led by their patriarch John Dutton, the family defends their property against constant attack by land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first National Park.

TV-MA • 2018 • 5 seasons

8.3
2K+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This modern Western drama earns its TV-MA rating for its unflinching depiction of the violent and morally ambiguous world of a powerful ranching family. Violence is frequent, brutal, and sometimes graphic, including intense shootouts with bloody results, severe beatings, characters being branded with hot irons, and occasional views of mutilated bodies. The series is saturated with strong language; the word 'f--k' is used pervasively… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Luke Grimes
Luke Grimes
Kelly Reilly
Kelly Reilly
Wes Bentley
Wes Bentley
Cole Hauser
Cole Hauser
Kelsey Asbille
Kelsey Asbille
Brecken Merrill
Brecken Merrill
Ryan Bingham
Ryan Bingham
Finn Little
Finn Little
Ian Bohen
Ian Bohen
Forrie J. Smith
Forrie J. Smith
Denim Richards
Denim Richards
Wendy Moniz
Wendy Moniz
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Is Yellowstone appropriate for kids?

This modern Western drama earns its TV-MA rating for its unflinching depiction of the violent and morally ambiguous world of a powerful ranching family. Violence is frequent, brutal, and sometimes graphic, including intense shootouts with bloody results, severe beatings… Read more — free account

Content severity in Yellowstone Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

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

Sex and nudity in Yellowstone

Sexual content is moderate but explicit at times. This season features non-graphic sexual situations, implied sexual encounters, and suggestive dialogue. There is no full nudity, but characters are shown in states of undress, such as women in bras/panties or showering, and a scene where a woman strips to bathe outdoors, with rear nudity briefly visible. Beth frequently uses sexual innuendo and aggressive flirtation.

Violence and gore in Yellowstone

Violence is severe and often graphic. It includes multiple shootouts with bloody injuries and fatalities, brutal fistfights, and physical assaults. Characters are kidnapped and tortured, and there are scenes depicting the aftermath of violent acts, such as dead bodies. An explosion with gruesome injuries and a character being branded are also depicted. Animal violence is present, including a horse being shot.

Language in Yellowstone

The language is consistently strong and pervasive throughout the season. Frequent uses of the 'f-word' and its variations are common, often in conjunction with other expletives including 's***,' 'a**hole,' 'b*****d,' and strong blasphemous language like 'goddamn.' Some derogatory terms are also used in anger or frustration.

Mature themes in Yellowstone

Core themes include political corruption, betrayal, the ethics of maintaining power, and the cyclical nature of revenge. Grief and loss are explored after a character's death. Mental manipulation and abuse are evident in the dynamics between several characters, particularly Jamie and Beth. The show continues to delve into addiction, particularly Beth's alcoholism, and environmental exploitation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Yellowstone appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Yellowstone is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This modern Western drama earns its TV-MA rating for its unflinching depiction of the violent and morally ambiguous world of a powerful ranching family. Violence is frequent, brutal, and sometimes graphic, including…

What age rating does Yellowstone have?

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

What is Yellowstone about?

This modern Western drama earns its TV-MA rating for its unflinching depiction of the violent and morally ambiguous world of a powerful ranching family. Violence is frequent, brutal, and sometimes graphic, including intense shootouts with bloody results, severe beatings, characters being branded with hot irons, and…

How many seasons does Yellowstone have?

Yellowstone has 5 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Yellowstone?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Yellowstone.

How violent is Yellowstone?

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

Is the language in Yellowstone appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Yellowstone.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Yellowstone?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Yellowstone.

What mature themes appear in Yellowstone?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Yellowstone.

Where can I read the full Yellowstone parent guide?

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