Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer is a three-part Netflix docuseries premiering on March 31, 2025. Directed by Liz Garbus, the series explores the chilling case of the Long Island Serial Killer, a murderer who targeted young women in the sex industry and evaded capture for over a decade.
Through interviews with journalists, law enforcement, and the victims’ families, the documentary sheds light on the prolonged investigation and the societal stigma that may have delayed justice.
Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer Age Rating
The series is rated TV-MA for disturbing content, strong language, and mature themes. Due to its intense subject matter, it is intended for mature audiences aged 17 and up. Below is a breakdown of the content parents should be aware of.
Violence & Disturbing Content
As a true crime documentary about a serial killer, Gone Girls contains discussions and depictions of graphic crimes, murder investigations, and forensic details. The show features crime scene photos, autopsy reports, and descriptions of violent acts, which may be distressing for sensitive viewers. While there are no dramatized reenactments, the real-life nature of the crimes makes the content particularly unsettling.
Language
The series includes strong language, especially in interviews and discussions surrounding the case. Explicit words such as f**k and s**t are used occasionally, particularly in emotional or intense moments.
Sexual Content & Mature Themes
The documentary discusses sex work, exploitation, and the vulnerability of women in the industry. While there is no nudity or explicit sexual content, the themes explored—including online solicitation, escort services, and victim-blaming—are mature and require viewer discretion. The series also highlights how the victims’ professions affected the way law enforcement and media handled their cases.
Is Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer Suitable for Teens?
- Ages 13-15: Not recommended due to disturbing true crime details, discussions of violence, and mature themes.
- Ages 16-17: May be appropriate for mature teens interested in true crime, but parental discretion is strongly advised.
Parents should consider their teen’s sensitivity to real-world violence and discussions of crime before allowing them to watch.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch the Trailer: This can help determine if the documentary is appropriate for your household.
- Discuss the Themes: Conversations about victim advocacy, media bias, and justice system failures can be insightful for mature teens.
- Monitor Emotional Impact: True crime content can be distressing—check in with your teen about their thoughts and feelings after watching.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for disturbing crime details, strong language, and mature themes.
Q: Does the show contain graphic violence?
A: While there are no dramatized scenes, the series includes crime scene photos, forensic reports, and discussions of violent acts.
Q: Is there sexual content in Gone Girls?
A: The series discusses sex work and victim exploitation, but there are no explicit sexual scenes.
Q: Is this documentary appropriate for teens?
A: It is best suited for older teens (16+) with an interest in true crime, but the disturbing nature of the case may be too intense for some viewers.
Q: Where can I watch Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer?
A: The documentary premieres on Netflix on March 31, 2025.
With its chilling real-life subject matter, Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer is a gripping but disturbing true crime series. While it provides valuable insights into a long-unsolved case, parents should be mindful of its mature themes before allowing teens to watch.