The Better Sister Parental Guide: What Parents Should Know

Nivedita Dubey
May 29, 2025

Key Points:

The Better Sister rating: TV-MA – Contains mature themes, violence, and strong language.
Content Includes: A central murder, profanity, implied sexual content, and themes of addiction and infidelity.
Viewer Suitability: Not recommended for viewers under 17; parental guidance advised for teens.

The Better Sister, the 8-episode Amazon Prime Video thriller series premiering on May 29, 2025, is adapted from the novel by Alafair Burke. With a TV-MA rating and a focus on family betrayal and a central murder mystery, it is geared toward mature audiences. Here’s a detailed parental guide to help families assess its suitability.

What is the TV-MA Rating for The Better Sister Based On?

The Better Sister - Official Trailer _ Prime Video — The Better Sister – Official Trailer _ Prime Video

The Better Sister has been rated TV-MA in the United States, indicating that the series is intended for mature audiences only. This rating reflects graphic violence, frequent profanity, and mature themes such as addiction, infidelity, and family dysfunction. Based on similar series and the novel it adapts, the international classifications are likely to be:

United Kingdom: 15 or 18
Australia: MA 15+
Canada: 19 (varies by province)

These ratings underscore the intensity of the show’s subject matter, particularly a central murder and the emotionally heavy narrative involving family conflicts and betrayal.

How Does The Better Sister Handle Violence and Language?

Violence plays a critical role in the series’ plot. The murder of Adam Macintosh by stabbing is central to the story. The scene is intense, with visible blood and the disturbing discovery of the body. While the violence is not prolonged or gratuitous, it is emotionally charged and impactful.

Language is also strong throughout. Expect frequent use of profanity including “fk,” “st,” and “bch”** in heated exchanges and confrontations. The dialogue is sharp, mirroring the novel’s tone, with multiple explicit terms appearing in nearly every episode. This aligns with the series’ intense and suspenseful narrative style.

Is There Sexual Content in The Better Sister?

While The Better Sister does not include overt or graphic sexual content, it contains implied intimacy and adult themes. A past affair between Chloe and Jake is part of the storyline, and emotional or suggestive scenes appear throughout. Although nudity has not been confirmed, intimate moments and sexually charged dialogue are present, especially surrounding Nicky’s past and Chloe’s complex romantic history.

What Mature Themes Are Explored in the Series?

The show explores several mature and emotionally heavy themes, such as:

Addiction – Nicky battles substance abuse, affecting her relationships.
Infidelity – Chloe marries Nicky’s ex-husband, creating lasting familial tension.
Family dysfunction – A strained sibling relationship unfolds after a murder.
Custody battles – As Ethan becomes a murder suspect, parental disputes rise.
Online harassment – Chloe’s feminist journalism brings threats and backlash.

These themes reflect real-life complexities and require emotional maturity to process, making the show unsuitable for younger viewers.

Are There Frightening or Intense Scenes in The Better Sister?

Yes. The murder scene and its aftermath, including blood at the crime scene and police investigations, create a chilling atmosphere. As Ethan becomes a suspect, emotional tension heightens, especially during courtroom confrontations and family interrogations. Addiction-related scenes may also disturb sensitive viewers, especially those with similar experiences.

What About Substance Use and Depictions of Luxury?

Substance use is part of Nicky’s character arc. While explicit drug use is not shown in detail, references to past addiction are frequent and significant. Social drinking appears occasionally in high-society settings.

The series features consumerism through Chloe’s career and social events, though it’s not the central focus. Designer fashion, upscale Manhattan venues, and professional galas are seen but serve more as background context than narrative drivers.

Who Should Watch The Better Sister Based on Age?

Under 13: Not suitable. The series contains violent scenes, emotional tension, and mature topics.
13–16: Not recommended without adult supervision. Teens may engage with themes of justice and family conflict but require context and guidance.
17 and above: Appropriate for mature teens and adults. The complex storyline and character dynamics suit viewers comfortable with emotional intensity.

Series Overview and Streaming Information

The Better Sister is a limited thriller series on Amazon Prime Video, available for streaming from May 29, 2025. The series features Jessica Biel as Chloe and Elizabeth Banks as Nicky. Other cast members include: