Dope Girls is a six-part historical drama set in post-World War I London, premiering on BBC One on February 24, 2025. The series explores the rise of the drug underworld in Soho, focusing on ambitious women navigating crime, survival, and power. The story follows Kate Galloway, a widow who opens a nightclub and becomes entangled in the cocaine trade.
Based on the non-fiction book Dope Girls: The Birth of the British Drug Underground by Marek Kohn, the show has been called a “spiritual successor” to Peaky Blinders due to its historical setting and themes of organized crime.
Dope Girls Age Rating
Dope Girls is rated TV-MA for strong language, drug use, sexual content, and violence. This rating means the show is intended for viewers 17 and older due to its mature themes. Below is a breakdown of its content to help parents decide if it’s appropriate for teens.
Violence
- Brutal fights and physical altercations, including street brawls and attacks with weapons.
- Gun violence, with characters being shot and killed in gang-related conflicts.
- Depictions of police raids and violent arrests.
- Some scenes of domestic abuse and coercion.
- Blood and injuries are shown in gritty detail.
Language
- Frequent use of strong profanity, including “fk,” “sht,” “btch,” and “ahole.”
- Insults and derogatory terms are commonly exchanged in intense arguments.
- Period-accurate slang, some of which may be offensive by modern standards.
Sexual Content
- Explicit sex scenes, including partial nudity and implied prostitution.
- A subplot involves women using seduction and relationships for power and financial gain.
- Some discussion of sexual exploitation and coercion.
- Period-accurate attitudes toward gender roles and morality are explored.
Drugs and Substance Use
- Frequent depictions of drug use, including characters snorting cocaine, smoking opium, and drinking heavily.
- Scenes set in nightclubs and drug dens, where substance use is normalized.
- The dangers of addiction and withdrawal are shown, though some characters indulge without consequences.
- Drug dealing and smuggling are central to the plot.
Is Dope Girls Suitable for Teens?
Due to its strong themes of drugs, crime, and sexual content, Dope Girls is not recommended for viewers under 17 without parental discretion. Parents should consider:
- The show’s portrayal of drug use and crime may be intense for younger teens.
- Sexual situations and relationships are depicted in a mature manner.
- Violence is realistic and sometimes graphic.
For older teens (16+), parents may want to preview the series or discuss its historical context before allowing them to watch it.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch the Trailer – Get a feel for the show’s tone and mature content.
- Discuss the Themes – Talk about the historical realities of crime, addiction, and gender roles.
- Set Viewing Limits – If allowing older teens to watch, consider watching together for discussion.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Dope Girls?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for drug use, sexual content, violence, and strong language.
Q: Why is Dope Girls rated TV-MA?
A: It includes explicit drug use, gang violence, sex scenes, and mature themes.
Q: Is Dope Girls appropriate for teenagers?
A: It is most suitable for older teens (16+), but not recommended for younger viewers due to its mature content.
Q: Does Dope Girls contain sexual violence?
A: While the show explores themes of exploitation, there are no explicit depictions of sexual assault.
Q: Is there nudity in Dope Girls?
A: Yes, the series includes partial nudity and intimate scenes.
Q: Where can I watch Dope Girls?
A: Dope Girls premieres on BBC One on February 24, 2025, and will be available on BBC iPlayer.
Q: Who stars in Dope Girls?
A: The series features a cast portraying key figures in Soho’s post-war underworld.