Boots (2025) is a U.S. coming-of-age dramedy series set in the 1990s Marine Corps, created by Andy Parker with showrunner Jennifer Cecil and executive producer Norman Lear.
The main cast includes Miles Heizer, Vera Farmiga, Liam Oh, Max Parker, Cedrick Cooper, Ana Ayora, Dominic Goodman, Kieron Moore, and Nicholas Logan.
Inspired by Greg Cope White’s memoir The Pink Marine, the show follows a closeted teen who impulsively enlists and finds unexpected brotherhood during boot camp. Boots premieres October 9, 2025 on Netflix.
Boots Age Rating
Boots is rated TV-MA on Netflix. Based on official previews and Netflix’s descriptors, parents should expect strong language, bullying/hazing intensity, period-accurate homophobic slurs, and mature thematic elements around identity and military culture.
Violence & Peril
Moderate. Boot-camp training, scuffles, and hazing present rough, non-graphic physicality. Scenes emphasize stress, shouting, humiliation, and high-stakes drills more than blood. Period bigotry and power imbalances add tension. (Assessment based on official teaser/first-look coverage.)
Language
Strong. Expect frequent profanity typical of military settings and homophobic and derogatory remarks reflecting the 1990s “don’t ask, don’t tell” era (depicted critically, not endorsed).
Mature Themes
Substantial. Identity, closeting, bullying, family dysfunction, and command-structure pressure are central. Romantic elements appear, but sexual content/nudity is not the focus in marketing to date. Alcohol among adults may appear; drug use is not emphasized at first glance. (Inferred from official synopses and teasers.)
Is Boots Suitable for Teens?
Ages 11–13: No. The mix of strong language, hazing, and slurs is too intense.
Ages 14–15: With Guidance. Mature, context-heavy themes; discuss historical attitudes and respect.
Ages 16–17: Yes (with discussion). Older teens can handle the language and intensity, and may benefit from the show’s messages about identity and resilience.
Bottom line: Best for ages 16+, or 14–15 with parental guidance, especially around language and prejudice.
What Parents Can Do
Set the context: Explain the 1990s military backdrop and “don’t ask, don’t tell,” so teens understand why slurs appear and why they’re unacceptable today.
Name the behaviors: Talk about hazing, consent, boundaries, and how to seek help when group pressure crosses the line.
Debrief after episodes: Ask what moments felt supportive vs. harmful, and how real-world teams (school, sports) should handle accountability and inclusion.
Official Trailer
FAQs
1) What is the official age rating for Boots?
Netflix lists a 15 certificate in some regions; a U.S. TV rating has not been posted publicly as of Sept 10, 2025.
2) Is Boots appropriate for kids or younger teens?
Generally no for under 14 due to strong language, hazing, and slurs; best for 16+ or 14–15 with guidance (see above).
3) How intense are the violent or scary scenes?
Intensity comes from boot-camp stress, yelling, and hazing rather than graphic violence.
4) Does the show include profanity or slurs?
Yes—frequent profanity and period-accurate homophobic slurs appear, portrayed critically within the story’s 1990s setting.
5) Is there sexual content or nudity?
Marketing emphasizes identity and camaraderie over sexuality; explicit sexual content hasn’t been highlighted in official materials.
6) Where can I watch Boots?
Netflix, starting October 9, 2025.