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

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

A dangerously charming, obsessive man goes to extreme measures to insert himself into the lives of women who fascinate him.

TV-MA • 2018 • 5 seasons

8.0
2K+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This psychological thriller follows a dangerously charming serial killer and stalker, earning its TV-MA rating for its pervasive dark themes, graphic violence, and strong sexual content. Parents should be aware that the series features frequent, brutal, and often bloody depictions of murder, including stabbings, bludgeonings, and scenes involving the disposal of bodies. Sexual content is also prominent, with numerous scenes of intense… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Penn Badgley
Penn Badgley
Charlotte Ritchie
Charlotte Ritchie
Griffin Matthews
Griffin Matthews
Anna Camp
Anna Camp
Madeline Brewer
Madeline Brewer
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Is You appropriate for kids?

This psychological thriller follows a dangerously charming serial killer and stalker, earning its TV-MA rating for its pervasive dark themes, graphic violence, and strong sexual content. Parents should be aware that the series features frequent, brutal, and often bloody… Read more — free account

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

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

Sex and nudity in You

Sexual content is strong and frequent. There are multiple scenes of sexual encounters between Joe and Beck, and other characters, depicted with passionate kissing, implied nudity (though no explicit frontal nudity is shown), and thrusting. Sexual assault is implied or depicted, including Joe forcing himself on Beck. Sexual harassment and objectification are recurring themes, particularly due to Joe's predatory behavior.

Violence and gore in You

Violence is strong and graphic. Joe's murderous tendencies continue, with multiple victims meeting gruesome ends. Scenes include strangulation, stabbings, bludgeoning with heavy objects, and characters being held captive in a glass cage. There is visible blood, dead bodies, and the aftermath of brutal attacks. A finger is graphically severed, and other scenes depict intense struggles and threats of violence.

Language in You

Profanity remains very strong and frequent throughout the season, consistent with previous seasons. Expect pervasive use of the 'f-word,' 'c-word,' and other strong expletives, often used in moments of anger, frustration, or casual conversation among characters in high-stress situations. The 'f-word' and 's-word' are heard multiple times per episode.

Mature themes in You

Themes are severe, focusing on obsession, stalking, murder, and psychological manipulation. Child abuse and neglect from Joe's past are depicted in flashbacks, influencing his present actions. The season delves into mental illness, including severe personality disorders and the cyclical nature of abuse. Themes of identity, deceit, and the dark side of love are central, alongside the pressures of fame and the superficiality of Los Angeles culture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is You appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests You is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This psychological thriller follows a dangerously charming serial killer and stalker, earning its TV-MA rating for its pervasive dark themes, graphic violence, and strong sexual content. Parents should be aware that the…

What age rating does You have?

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

What is You about?

This psychological thriller follows a dangerously charming serial killer and stalker, earning its TV-MA rating for its pervasive dark themes, graphic violence, and strong sexual content. Parents should be aware that the series features frequent, brutal, and often bloody depictions of murder, including stabbings…

How many seasons does You have?

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

Is there sex or nudity in You?

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

How violent is You?

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

Is the language in You appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across You.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in You?

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

What mature themes appear in You?

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

Where can I read the full You parent guide?

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