Parents' Guide to

NYPD Blue

By Sierra Filucci, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Rich police drama with strong characters. No kids.

TV Syndicated, TNT Drama 1993
NYPD Blue Poster Image

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Is It Any Good?

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Kids say (2):

Creators Steven Bochco and David Milch strived for accuracy in their depiction of a New York City police precinct. The set, the routines, and especially the lingo all ring true. Each episode is peppered with real-life street scenes -- people hailing cabs, loading trucks, crossing streets -- which adds to the show's realism and texture.

In its first season, NYPD Blue attracted controversy with its adult language and bits of nudity (including a famous shot of Smits' bare butt), and it proudly pushed the limits of prime-time acceptability throughout its run. The show's decidedly mature language, nudity, violence, and issues are all good reasons for kids to stay away (although TNT airs versions from which the roughest stuff has been excised), but adults will definitely enjoy Blue's edgy, dense drama.

TV Details

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