Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Sons of Anarchy centers on a tough-talking, hard-living motorcycle gang that runs an illegal gun-running operation and protects its members by any means possible. That translates into violent scenes that often veer into shocking territory, with blood (and guts) shown on-screen, and even some story lines that touch on sexually violent acts such as rape and child pornography. Sexual content can be equally graphic (including simulated sex and some partial nudity), and social drinking is common, with occasional drug references and use. Unbleeped language includes "s--t," along with some sexist and racist insults.
Sexual
Content
Sex isn't constant, but scenes that pop up can be graphic, featuring male rear nudity and simulated sex. Some story lines involve pornography -- and, in one case, child pornography. A few female characters dress in skimpy outfits, revealing serious cleavage.
Violence
The bikers sometimes brawl with each other for fun, but other fight scenes can be extremely graphic and involve a variety of weapons, from guns to bare fists. One episode involves a horrific rape, and another centers on a school shooting. Blood -- and brains -- are shown splattering against walls.
Language
The bikers swear frequently and sometimes use racial epithets to denigrate rivals. Women are called "whores," "bitches," and "gashes," and just about everyone says "s--t," which isn't bleeped.
Social
Behavior
Although crime and violence are often glorified for shock value on-screen, the show makes it pretty clear that this sort of life doesn't lead to riches or happiness. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Family is a constant theme, and love among the brotherhood is genuine. But there's betrayal, manipulation, and treachery to balance it out.
Consumerism
All the Sons ride customized Harley-Davidson motorcycles, although the brand isn't typically highlighted.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Social drinking, often to excess, is common, and there are some references to marijuana and methamphetamine, along with scenes of people using drugs and shooting up. But the club actually spends a lot of time and effort keeping illegal drugs out of their town (and, at one point, when the club gets bullied into trafficking, it goes horribly wrong).
