Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this pay-cable vampire series from the creator of Six Feet Under is, like that show, very much intended for adults. Viewers can expect plenty of nudity, simulated sex scenes, strong language (including "s--t" and "f--k"), drinking, and drug use, as well as references to prostitution. That said, the show also explores the human ability to embrace and understand those who are different.

Sexual Content

Right from the opening sequence, there's plenty of nudity (breasts, buttocks) and a wide variety of simulated sex acts, including orgies. There are also images of women stripping and dancing suggestively, and prostitution is frequently discussed. Strong language is used to describe female genitalia. Vampire biting is considered an erotic act and is referred to as "fang banging." Vampire blood is sold on the black market as an alternative to Viagra.

Violence

Mortals and vampires are shown pushing, punching, kicking, and shoving each other (sometimes brutally). Knives, chains, and other items are sometimes used as weapons. The show's opening sequence contains brief images of the KKK, gutted animals, and children eating bloody organs. Some mortals are "drainers" (they kidnap and drain vampires' blood and sell it). Other mortals are mysteriously found dead. Vampires become more evil when they nest together.

Language

Language is strong and uncensored. Words include everything from "hell" to "s--t", "f--k," and more.

Social Behavior

The series is a fantasy, but it serves as a metaphor for the unfairness of judging a group or community based on the actions of a few. Of course, some of that gets overshadowed by the show's soapier elements, from betrayal and manipulation to sex and violence.

Consumerism

Not applicable.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Lots of visible consumption of beer, hard liquor, and Tru Blood (synthetic blood created for vampires). Some discussion of drug trafficking and images of drug use. Tara's mother is a violent alcoholic.