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TV-MA on Netflix means that a particular TV show or movie is suited for mature audiences only. The TV-MA rating means that a television program contains graphic sexual activity, foul language, nudity, graphic violence not suited for minors or any combination of the elements mentioned above.
TV-MA (or Television-Mature Audiences) is a rating assigned by Netflix or the TV Parental Guidelines (TVPG) at Netflix’s request. The TV-MA rating is more equivalent to similar movie ratings you might find more familiar on Netflix, such as the “NC-17” and “R” ratings, assigned by the MPAA’s Classification and Rating Administration.
Rating origins
The movie rating system was created as far back as 1968, with TV show ratings also established, following the creation of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu request maturity ratings as part of movies and TV show license negotiations with production studios and film distributors. The rating for each TV program is assigned by the various standards rating authority for the region from which the program originated, such as the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) or the TVPG (TV Parental Guidelines)
Netflix TV rating (younger viewers)
Netflix also has ratings for programs designed for younger audiences, including:
TV-Y: means the show is appropriate for kids of all ages. TV-Y denotes the program is completely designed for the youngest audiences.
TV-G: means the program is OK for all audiences. However, some of the content may not be designed specifically for children.
TV14: rated for teens but not meant for viewers below the age of 14.
TV-Y7-VF and TV-Y7: The VF tag stands for violence and fantasy. TV-Y7 means the program is not intended for kids below the age of 7 because they may not be able to distinguish between reality and fantasy.
TV-PG: means that the program contains violence, foul language, and sexual content.