The “Alex vs. A-Rod” series is a compelling three-part HBO documentary set to premiere on Thursday, November 6, 2025. This project delves into the complex life and career of Major League Baseball icon Alex Rodriguez, examining the fundamental contradictions between his public and private identities.
The documentary aims to offer a candid and thorough look at Rodriguez’s legendary but controversial path in baseball. It traces his evolution from being the first overall pick in the 1993 MLB Draft and his rapid ascent to stardom with the Seattle Mariners, to his monumental, record-breaking contract with the Texas Rangers that solidified his status as one of the most talked-about figures in sports.
The series dedicates significant attention to the performance-enhancing drug (PED) scandals, notably the 2009 revelation and the subsequent 2013 exposé that resulted in the longest PED suspension in MLB history. The final chapter of the series will address his eventual return to the Yankees, reflecting on his self-examination, personal growth, and the new, more grounded perspective he developed in his post-playing career.
Alex vs. A-Rod Age Rating
Alex vs. A-Rod is rated TV-MA for mature thematic material, strong language, frank interviews, and in-depth exploration of adult scandals. This TV-MA tag signals content intended for mature audiences and generally not suitable for children under 17.
Violence & Peril
Physical violence is not a primary focus of this series. The show may include tense archival clips, heated confrontations, and emotional scenes tied to career crises and fallout. Any on-screen peril is emotional rather than graphic. Parents should expect moments that feel intense because of personal conflict and reputational consequences.
Language
Expect strong, unfiltered language in interviews and locker-room recollections. Players, broadcasters, and interviewees often speak candidly. Occasional profanity appears as part of honest recollection and context.
Mature Themes
The documentary handles adult topics: use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), public scandal, infidelity, divorce, and career suspension. It explores betrayal, public shaming, and the long-term effects of scandal on family. The series also focuses on identity, ambition, and personal reckoning.
Is Alex vs. A-Rod Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The program’s frank talk about adult relationships, scandals, and drug use is not appropriate for preteens. Emotional complexity and strong language make it unsuitable.
Ages 13–15: With guidance. Older teens might watch parts of the series with a parent. Parents should preview episodes and discuss context. Key teaching moments include ethics in sport and consequences of choices.
Ages 16–17: With guidance / borderline appropriate. Mature teens can follow the themes and historical context. Recommend parental discussion about PEDs, media, and fame.
The final recommendation: TV-MA suggests it is best for ages 17+ or younger viewers only with active parental guidance.
What Parents Can Do
- Pre-screen an episode to judge tone and language before allowing teens to watch.
- Use episodes as teachable moments about ethics, pressure in high-performance sport, and media narratives.
- Discuss the difference between public persona and private life, and how consequences follow choices.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Alex vs. A-Rod?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for mature themes and language.
Q: Is Alex vs. A-Rod appropriate for teens?
A: Not for younger teens. Older teens may watch with parental context and discussion.
Q: Are there violent or scary scenes?
A: No graphic violence. Intensity comes from scandal, emotional interviews, and reputational fallout.
Q: Does the series include strong language or slurs?
A: Yes. Expect frank, sometimes coarse language in interviews and recollections.
Q: Is there sexual content or explicit scenes?
A: The show discusses relationships and personal scandals. It does not focus on explicit sexual imagery.
Q: Where and when can I watch it?
A: Alex vs. A-Rod debuts on HBO and streams on HBO Max on November 6, 2025.