Bridgerton on Netflix – What Parents Need to Know

Bridgerton, an original Netflix series based on a popular series of Regency novels written by Julia Quinn, will be available to stream beginning December 25, 2020.  Is it appropriate for kids, tweens and teens?  I’m answering this question and more in my spoiler free parent movie review.  With a TV-MA rating that includes nudity and graphic sexual content, here’s what parents need to know about Bridgerton on Netflix.

Bridgerton on Netflix- What Parents Need to Know

Yikes.  Where do I even begin?  I was really looking forward to this particular series on Netflix. The series follows the Bridgerton family and friends as they navigate life and love during the Regency era.  Not only did I read the series of books that it’s based upon, but I love period dramas like Downton Abbey and Poldark.  However, now that I’ve seen the first season of Bridgerton, I must say that I’m extremely disappointed. Here’s what you need to know to help you decide whether or not Bridgerton is appropriate for kids, tweens, and teens.

It’s Rated TV-MA

Bridgerton is rated MA which means that it’s for mature audiences only. A TV-MA rating is usually reserved for TV shows which are suitable for adults and generally not suited for those under 17 years of age.  That’s because it can contain graphic violence, crude language, and sexual content.  Bridgerton doesn’t necessarily contain a lot of bad language or graphic violence, but it does contain A LOT of sexual content.  More about that below.

Language

Overall, there’s not a lot of bad language in the series, although some of the characters like to say different variations of the word f**k.  Likewise, the word b***h is also used.

Graphic Violence

Graphic violence isn’t really depicted in this series, although there is a duel between two characters and several boxing scenes.  There’s also a death, but nothing is shown on camera.  There is, however, plenty of graphic sexual content……..

Sexual Content

This is where Bridgerton earns its MA rating.  There are several explicit sex scenes.  There is also a lot of nudity.  I didn’t think that anything could be as bad as The Witcher, but Bridgerton comes close to it.  I would definitely think twice before allowing younger children to watch this series.  

Overall Thoughts

I was extremely disappointed with this series, especially since I enjoyed reading the novels so much.  There are noticeable differences between the book and the Netflix series.  And while there are sex scenes in the novels, it pales in comparison to the sex scenes in the Netflix series.  This series was so promising (especially with its diverse cast), but the nudity and sex was just too much.  

Bridgerton Season 2

Bridgerton Season 2 is now available to stream on Netflix.  Click here for my parents guide.

About Bridgerton

From Shondaland and Creator Chris Van Dusen, Bridgerton follows Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor), the eldest daughter of the powerful Bridgerton family as she makes her debut onto Regency London’s competitive marriage market. Hoping to follow in her parent’s footsteps and find a match sparked by true love, Daphne’s prospects initially seem to be unrivaled. But as her older brother begins to rule out her potential suitors, the high society scandal sheet written by the mysterious Lady Whistledown casts aspersions on Daphne. Enter the highly desirable and rebellious Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page), committed bachelor and the catch of the season for the debutantes’ mamas. Despite proclaiming that they want nothing the other has to offer, their attraction is undeniable and sparks fly as they find themselves engaged in an increasing battle of wits while navigating society’s expectations for their future.