BoJack Horseman
Here's what we found in BoJack Horseman. Every family is different — get a report that reflects yours.
Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to BoJack Horseman
BoJack Horseman is an adult animated tragicomedy series that delves into the existential crises of its titular character, a washed-up 1990s sitcom star in Hollywood, who is an anthropomorphic horse. The show explores themes of addiction, depression, trauma, fame, and personal responsibility through a blend of dark humor and poignant drama. With a runtime of approximately 25 minutes per episode across six seasons and a total of 77 episodes plus a Christmas special, it targets an adult audience capable of engaging with complex narratives and mature content. The series is known for its deep character development, tackling serious psychological issues and the consequences of one's actions on themselves and those around them, rather than being a lighthearted comedy. It portrays the struggles of its characters in a realistic and often uncomfortable manner, focusing on their attempts to navigate a challenging and often unforgiving world.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The series features significant LGBTQ+ representation, portraying diverse characters and their relationships. This includes a main character's journey of self-discovery regarding asexuality, a prominent gay character whose career was impacted by homophobia, and a healthy married lesbian couple. The show addresses LGBTQ+ themes as integral parts of its character's lives.
Todd Chavez, a main character, realizes he is asexual in the season 3 finale "That Went Well." His journey of understanding and articulating his asexuality is explored in later seasons, including forming a relationship with another asexual character, Maude, in Season 6.. Herb Kazzaz, BoJack's former best friend and 'Horsin' Around' creator, is gay and was blacklisted from Hollywood due to being outed in a public scandal, highlighting systemic homophobia in the entertainment industry.. Dr. Indira and Mary-Beth are introduced as a married Black lesbian couple in Season 5, depicted as therapists who provide a healthy and comical side plot.. Additionally, Kelsey Jannings, a film director, is confirmed to be lesbian.
Romance and Sexual Content
The series features frequent romance and sexual content, including implied sexual acts, suggestive dialogue, and discussions of sexual relationships. While explicit nudity is mostly minor or non-graphic, themes such as infidelity, sexual abuse of power, and an episode revolving around autoerotic asphyxiation are present, contributing to a high level of mature sexual themes.
Profanity
Profanity is frequently present throughout the series, including strong curse words. While the most explicit 'F-word' is used sparingly, other strong language is common, contributing to an adult-oriented dialogue style.
Substance Use
Substance use, particularly alcohol and drug addiction, is a central and pervasive theme throughout 'BoJack Horseman.' The show explicitly depicts heavy drinking, drug abuse, and the severe, often fatal, consequences of addiction, including overdose and relapses.
Scary & Intense Content
The series contains numerous intensely dark and psychologically disturbing themes and scenes, including severe depression, suicide attempts, emotional and physical abuse, and the profound consequences of destructive behavior. These elements are not jump scares but rather permeate the narrative, creating a heavy and often unsettling viewing experience.
Disrespect & Rebellion
Disrespect and rebellious behavior are prevalent, primarily driven by BoJack's narcissistic, selfish, and often abusive personality. Characters frequently engage in rude remarks, defiance of authority, and disregard for others' feelings, reflecting the show's exploration of flawed individuals and toxic relationships.
Would these 6 concerns matter to your family?
Get a report based on your values — not generic ratings.
Additional Context
Best For Ages
Adults 18+ due to pervasive mature themes including severe substance abuse, explicit sexual content, graphic depictions of mental health crises, strong profanity, and discussions of complex LGBTQ+ identities.
Good to Know
BoJack Horseman is critically acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of mental illness, addiction, and complex human relationships, making it a valuable tool for discussion among mature audiences. However, its dark and intense themes, coupled with explicit content, necessitate a high level of viewer maturity and parental guidance. The show's narrative often challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and societal issues.
What are you watching next?
Screen any title in seconds — even ones no one else has reviewed.
No credit card required — join hundreds of families