Although the TV-MA rating means a program is technically made for 17-year-olds (18 in some cases), programs with this rating can sometimes be more graphic and severe than what R-rated movies would typically allow, thanks to the existence of premium cable networks and certain online streaming services.

TV-MA is the strongest rating the industry gives, with the M standing for "mature." TV-MA is reserved for shows whose level of explicit sexuality, graphic violence and/or strong language -- along with mature themes -- make them unsuitable for children 16 or younger.