Slow Horses parents guide: Is the Apple TV thriller suitable for kids?

Slow Horses is one of those shows that is both dark and funny.

The Apple TV+ spy thriller follows a group of MI5 rejects led by the sharp Jackson Lamb, played by Gary Oldman.

But is the show suitable for kids? The short answer: not really. The show has a TV-MA rating on Apple TV+, which means it is suitable for mature audiences only.

Violence, language, and the messy world of MI5 misfits: Understanding Slow Horses’ mature tone

What makes Slow Horses stand out from many of the other spy dramas is its utmost honesty when it comes to dialogue and visuals. The show in any way, shape, or form does not sugarcoat the grim realities of intelligence work.

Across seasons, the violence is harsh and, at times, very graphic. You'll see bloody shootouts and scenes that feel disturbingly real. From chopped heads to gunshot wounds, the show does not hold back. Even when the camera isn't particularly focused on all of the gore, you still know it's right around the corner.

If we break it down by seasons, Season 1 already sets up and comes in with a high level of violence, but Seasons 2 and 3 crank it up even more. Fans see realistic fights and the aftermaths of violence, which is not something kids should be exposed to.

If we talk language, then it is equally strong, with Gary Oldman's Jackson Lamb leading the way for profanity in the show. His language includes the constant use of the F-word, among others.

Sure, it's part of his allure and charm as a character, but it does make the show more apt for older audiences. Simply put, this is a show that has always been meant for adults, and that is why it is not at all afraid to show the sloppy undertones of spy life with all of its flaws and frustrations.

Substance use and adult themes: Why Slow Horses leans heavily toward mature viewers

Beyond all of the gore and language that is foul, Slow Horses also shows characters who drink frequently, characters who smoke not just cigs but also drugs. Jackson Lamb, the show's lead, smokes, drinks, and is rarely seen without a bottle or cigarette in hand.

Other characters also follow through with similar patterns, normalizing a level of substance use that might be inappropriate for kids.

There are also scenes that have adult themes as well, though they aren't the show's main focus. A few brief scene includes some nudity, but it is mild compared to the violence and profanity.

The show also deals with some themes that are not suitable for children.

Hence, Apple TV+ has fittingly rated Slow Horses as TV-MA. With its mix of strong use of foul language, violence, and adult themes, it's best appropriate for viewers aged 18 and up.

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