The Waterfront is a gritty new family drama series coming to Netflix on June 19, 2025, created by Kevin Williamson (Scream, Dawson’s Creek).
Set in coastal North Carolina and inspired by true events, the eight-episode series follows the powerful and troubled Buckley family as their once-thriving fishing empire begins to fall apart.
The show stars Holt McCallany as patriarch Harlan Buckley and Maria Bello as his strong-willed wife Belle. Also featured are Melissa Benoist, Jake Weary, Rafael L. Silva, Humberly González, Danielle Campbell, Brady Hepner, and Topher Grace as a guest star.
As the Buckleys face personal demons, long-buried secrets, and increasing financial and criminal pressures, The Waterfront dives deep into betrayal, addiction, and legacy—all with a heavy dose of dysfunction. The show is rated TV-MA, signaling strong content that may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
The Waterfront Age Rating
The Waterfront is rated TV-MA for strong language, mature themes, drug use, and some violence. This rating suggests the series is intended for adults and may be unsuitable for viewers under 17.
Violence & Peril
While not action-driven, the show includes tense confrontations, domestic disputes, and scenes of smuggling or threats involving local criminal elements. Some episodes include moments of physical altercations or emotionally intense breakdowns that may be disturbing.
Language
The dialogue contains frequent profanity, including the f-word and other strong language. It reflects the show’s emotionally raw tone and the stressed relationships within the Buckley family.
Sexual Content
There are references to sexual relationships and intimacy. Some scenes include implied sex or passionate encounters, but nudity is limited or not shown explicitly. Themes of infidelity and toxic romance are present.
Mature Themes
The series explores addiction and recovery, family trauma, smuggling, moral ambiguity, legacy, and emotional abuse. Characters make ethically questionable decisions, and the tone is often dark and intense. There are scenes of drug use, alcoholism, and mental health struggles.
Is The Waterfront Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The show contains adult themes, profanity, and emotional intensity well beyond what is appropriate for pre-teens. Younger viewers will likely find the subject matter confusing or upsetting.
Ages 13–17: Not recommended. Even mature teens may struggle with the show’s dark family dynamics, addiction-related content, and moral complexity. While older teens may be drawn to the dramatic storytelling, parental discretion is advised due to the heavy emotional and thematic content.
The Waterfront is best suited for adults 18 and older, especially those interested in mature, slow-burning dramas about flawed families and ethical dilemmas.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the Show: Watch the first episode to evaluate tone, content, and overall maturity level.
Have Conversations: If older teens watch it, discuss addiction, consequences, and complex moral choices.
Monitor Reactions: This series may stir strong emotional responses. Be available to unpack heavy scenes if teens insist on watching.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Waterfront?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for mature themes, strong language, and drug use.
Q: Is The Waterfront appropriate for teenagers?
A: No, the mature content and emotional depth make it more suitable for adults.
Q: Are there graphic scenes in The Waterfront?
A: There are some intense scenes related to addiction, emotional breakdowns, and criminal behavior, but not constant graphic violence.
Q: Does the show contain sexual content or nudity?
A: There are romantic subplots and implied intimacy, though nudity is minimal or absent.
Q: Where can I watch The Waterfront?
A: The Waterfront premieres June 19, 2025, exclusively on Netflix.