Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Orange Is the New Black is a mature dramedy set in a women's prison with strong language and sexual situations. As is usual with prison settings, there is frequent implied menace. The women prisoners talk very frequently about race and may fling racial insults at each other. There are many four-letter words, usually used in a mocking or mild context: "Get the f--k out of here," one prisoner tells another who is taking too long in the shower. Viewers will also see nudity, including breasts and backsides, and both male/female and lesbian couples having sex in bed and elsewhere. Drugs are mentioned frequently, usually in the context of criminal justice, and characters drink alcohol onscreen.

Sexual Content

Some early episodes feature nudity (breasts and backsides) and simulated sex, such as when a woman reaches her hand under some blankets and makes a man moan, or two women have oral sex in a shower. There is a lot of discussion of lesbians and having sex with women and viewers see women kissing, cuddling and naked together. Implied masturbation.

Violence

As is customary in dramas set in a prison environment, there is often danger and menace and the main character is in jeopardy early in the series. The prisoners generally fight with words and deeds rather than fists, though. Some flashbacks offer scenes of abuse or murder. Some sexual blackmail, harassment.

Language

Many four-letter words, generally used in a mild context: "How the f--k are you going to prison tomorrow?" Also sexual language, such as when one woman asks another if she "likes p---y."

Social Behavior

The overarching message of the series is that of redemption at great cost. We see a realistic character who has committed a crime and is accepting the realistic consequences. Concepts of class, race, privilege, sexuality, consent, the meaning of family, and institutional corruption are all handled with depth and humor.

Consumerism

Not applicable.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Drugs are mentioned frequently in context with criminal justice. A few flashback scenes depict drug dealing. Characters rarely drink onscreen.