Butterfly is a 2025 Prime Video spy thriller series based on the Boom! Studios graphic novel of the same name. Created by Ken Woodruff (The Mentalist, Gotham), the show stars Daniel Dae Kim, Reina Hardesty, Piper Perabo, Louis Landau, and a talented lineup of Korean actors, including Kim Tae Hee, Sung Dong Il, Lee Il Hwa, and Kim Jihun.
Set in South Korea, the series follows David Jung (Daniel Dae Kim), a former U.S. intelligence operative living a quiet life—until the ghosts of his past return. When Rebecca (Reina Hardesty), a deadly agent from the organization Caddis, comes after him, David discovers she is his estranged daughter.
Forced into a tense game of cat and mouse, both must navigate trust, betrayal, and survival while running from the same powerful enemy.
Butterfly will premiere on August 13, 2025, with all six episodes released at once.
Butterfly Age Rating
Butterfly is rated TV-MA for mature content, including action violence, foul language, sexual content, and substance use. The series is intended for mature audiences and may not be appropriate for younger viewers. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown for parents:
Violence & Peril
Frequent fight scenes, gun battles, and moments of intense danger. Characters are injured, shot, or knocked unconscious. Some scenes show blood but are not overly graphic. Chase sequences and tense standoffs create constant suspense.
Language
Frequent use of strong profanity in both English and Korean. Language fits the high-pressure and dangerous nature of the spy thriller setting.
Sexual Content
Brief moments of sexual references and implied intimacy. No prolonged or explicit scenes.
Substance Use
Characters are shown drinking alcohol and smoking. Some scenes include depictions of drugs and substance abuse connected to the criminal underworld.
Other Content Warnings
- Flashing lights and strobe effects may trigger photosensitive viewers.
- Themes of betrayal, estranged family relationships, and moral dilemmas are central to the story.
Is Butterfly Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable. The violence, strong language, and mature themes make it inappropriate for younger teens.
Ages 14–15: Caution advised. Older teens familiar with action thrillers may handle the intensity, but the TV-MA rating signals mature content. Parental discretion is strongly recommended.
Ages 16–17: Suitable for most mature teens. The show’s intense action, spy intrigue, and family drama may appeal to older teens who enjoy shows like Jack Ryan or Alias.
What Parents Can Do
Preview Episodes: Watch the first episode to gauge the tone and intensity before allowing teens to view.
Discuss Spy Drama Tropes: Talk about the show’s portrayal of trust, betrayal, and moral ambiguity in espionage.
Address Violence & Language: Set expectations for strong language and stylized action before viewing.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Butterfly?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for violence, language, sexual content, and substance use.
Q: Is Butterfly appropriate for teens?
A: It is best suited for mature teens aged 16+ due to its intense action and mature themes.
Q: Does the show have graphic violence?
A: Violence is frequent and sometimes bloody, but not overly gory.
Q: Is there sexual content in Butterfly?
A: There are brief sexual references and implied intimacy, but no prolonged explicit scenes.
Q: Where can I watch Butterfly?
A: The series premieres on Prime Video on August 13, 2025, with all six episodes released the same day.