Parents' Guide to Marked

TV Netflix Drama 2025
Marked TV Poster: Ama Qamata and Lerato Mvelase are in the foreground. Bonko Khoza stands beside a car in an open field.

Common Sense Media Review

By Ty'Kira Smalls , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Dramatic thriller explores faith; has sex, swears, and guns.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

  • Lerato Mvelase sits behind the wheel of a vehicle. She wears a dark blue uniform and a clear earpiece in one ear.
  • Natasha Thahane and Sphamandla Dhludhlu sit on bleachers. Dhludhlu has blood on his eye and cuts on his face.
  • (L-R) Bonko Khoz, Lerato Mvelase, and Ama Qamata in a doctor’s office. Brain scans are on the wall behind Mvelase.

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What's the Story?

MARKED follows Babalwa Godongwana (Lerato Mvelase), an ex-cop who has turned to the risky world of money running to financially support her family. After her daughter's health rapidly declines, Babalwa leans on her religion and her resources for help. But with the church and her job turning down her pleas for help, Babalwa is stuck between a rock and a hard place. When a crime boss comes to her with an offer that leads into a life of crime, her life and faith are tested.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This series follows a woman's devout journey mixed with danger and desperation. Marked is thrilling and has lots of potential with Mvelase's portrayal of Babalwa. It has a lot of moving parts, and the story can get convoluted at times. The language, sexual content, and violence make this most suitable for older teens.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Marked explores religion and faith. How is it portrayed in the series? Do you think the creators are overtly critiquing or supporting any aspects of religion? What message do you think the creators are trying to convey?

  • Do you consider Babalwa to be a "good" person? Why, or why not? Is she justified in her actions? Why do you think good people sometimes turn to bad things?

TV Details

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Marked TV Poster: Ama Qamata and Lerato Mvelase are in the foreground. Bonko Khoza stands beside a car in an open field.

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