Countdown is a 2025 American crime drama series created by Derek Haas, streaming on Prime Video. The show stars Jensen Ackles as LAPD Detective Mark Meachum and follows a special task force investigating the daylight murder of a Homeland Security officer.
As the team digs deeper, they uncover a larger threat that could endanger millions. With weekly episodes and a suspense-filled story, Countdown blends police procedural, action, and political intrigue.
The series premiered on June 25, 2025, with a new episode airing every Wednesday until the season finale on September 3, 2025.
Countdown Age Rating
Countdown is rated TV-MA (Mature Audiences) by Prime Video for:
- Violence
- Fighting
- Strong language
- Alcohol use
- Substance use
- Tobacco depictions
- Imitable behavior
Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of the show’s content:
Violence & Peril
There are frequent scenes involving guns, hand-to-hand combat, and life-threatening situations. Shootouts, explosions, and intense chases are common. Some injuries are shown in detail, including blood. The overall tone is tense and gritty, in line with modern crime dramas.
Language
Strong language is used throughout, including multiple uses of the F-word and other profanities. The language reflects the high-stress nature of the characters’ jobs and situations.
Substance Use
Characters are seen drinking alcohol socially and under stress. Occasional references to drug trafficking and substance use appear, especially in episodes focusing on narcotics investigations.
Mature Themes
Themes include terrorism, law enforcement ethics, political corruption, death, and trauma. Emotional distress and dark conversations about morality and justice are part of the show’s core. Some characters are pushed to violent or questionable actions under pressure.
Is Countdown Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable: The show’s strong violence, language, and adult situations are too intense and inappropriate for pre-teens and younger teens.
Ages 14–17: Caution advised: Older teens who enjoy gritty crime shows may be drawn to Countdown, but the violent and mature themes make it best suited for mature viewers only. Parents should decide based on their teen’s comfort with intense TV-MA content.
What Parents Should Know
If your teen is curious about Countdown, here are a few things you can do:
Preview an Episode: Watch the first episode to assess how graphic the content is before allowing your teen to continue.
Talk About the Themes: If older teens are allowed to watch, discuss the show’s portrayal of justice, violence, and decision-making under pressure.
Set Viewing Limits: Consider watching together or setting screen time limits, especially for teens sensitive to violent or emotionally heavy stories.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Countdown (2025)?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for violence, language, and mature content.
Q: Is Countdown appropriate for teenagers?
A: It is not recommended for younger teens. Older teens may watch with caution, but the content is made for adults.
Q: Does the show have graphic violence?
A: Yes. There are several intense action scenes, shootouts, and realistic portrayals of injury and danger.
Q: Are there any sexual scenes?
A: As of now, the show focuses more on action and crime investigation. Sexual content is minimal or non-existent in early episodes.
Q: Where can I watch Countdown?
A: Countdown is available on Prime Video, with new episodes released weekly on Wednesdays.