Run Away (2026) is a British limited drama series adapted from Harlan Coben’s 2019 novel. The adaptation was written by Danny Brocklehurst and produced for Netflix with Harlan Coben as an executive producer.
The cast is led by James Nesbitt (Simon Greene), Ellie de Lange (Paige Greene), Minnie Driver (Ingrid Greene), Ruth Jones (Elena Ravenscroft), Alfred Enoch, and Lucian Msamati.
The story follows a father whose life collapses when his eldest daughter runs away, and his desperate search plunges him into a violent, drug-linked underworld while dark family secrets emerge. This guide follows our usual Cineparenting format and draws on recent Netflix press materials and industry reporting for release and content details.
Run Away Age Rating
Run Away is rated TV-MA for mature audiences due to sustained intense violence, realistic depictions of drug addiction, and strong language. The TV-MA label indicates the series is intended for viewers 17 and older and that themes are handled in an explicit, uncompromising way. The official Netflix synopsis emphasizes “shocking violence” and a descent into a dangerous underworld, which supports this classification.
Violence & Peril
Violence in Run Away is frequent and intense rather than mild. The plot includes an on-screen escalation from confrontation to shocking violence and scenes tied to criminal groups and drug environments. Expect realistic physical confrontations, tense arrests or standoffs, and moments that can be visually and emotionally disturbing. The series uses violence as a core driver of the plot, not merely as background action, so scenes may feel visceral and upsetting for younger viewers.
Language
Strong profanity appears throughout the series. Characters in high-stress confrontations and criminal scenes use coarse language often and repeatedly. Expect adult expletives in family fights and in scenes depicting criminal conversations, which reinforce the TV-MA rating.
Mature Themes
Run Away deals with drug addiction, family trauma, criminal exploitation, grief, secrecy, and betrayal. The daughter’s substance-use storyline is portrayed as serious and raw rather than implied, and the father’s search exposes him to a criminal underworld and emotional trauma. Themes also include deception within the family and the psychological costs of secrecy. Parents should be aware that the series treats these topics in depth and with emotional realism.
Is Run Away Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The series contains explicit violence, drug use, and adult themes that are inappropriate for preteens. Scenes may be frightening and emotionally intense, and the subject matter is meant for mature viewers.
Ages 13–16: With guidance. Mature teens might follow the plot, but parents should preview episodes first. The realistic drug scenes, shocking violence, and heavy emotional themes can be distressing and may require discussion afterward.
Ages 17+: Yes, with caution. Older teens and adults will find the story compelling, but the series is designed for mature viewers. If a 17-year-old watches, parents should be prepared to discuss addiction, criminal behavior, and the consequences of secrets.
Final recommendation: Rated TV-MA; best for adults and older teens (17+) only.
What Parents Can Do
Pre-screen at least the first episode. Watching ahead helps you judge tone and decide whether your teen can handle the emotional intensity.
Prepare to talk about drugs, safety, and how addiction is portrayed. Use concrete questions (What did you notice about Paige’s choices? What resources exist for someone in trouble?).
Discuss family secrecy and trust after viewing. The show’s central questions about what people hide and why can become useful conversation starters.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Run Away?
A: Run Away is rated TV-MA for strong violence, drug content, and frequent strong language.
Q: Is Run Away appropriate for teens?
A: It depends on age and maturity. It is not appropriate for preteens; mature teens (13–16) require parental guidance; the series is intended for 17+.
Q: Are there violent or scary scenes?
A: Yes. The series contains intense, realistic violence and distressing moments tied to criminal activity.
Q: Does the show depict drug use?
A: Yes. A central storyline involves the daughter’s drug addiction and related scenes; portrayals are realistic and explicit.
Q: Is strong language used?
A: Yes. Expect frequent strong profanity in both family and criminal scenes.
Q: When and where can I watch it?
A: Netflix will premiere the eight-episode limited series on January 1, 2026.