Bates Motel (2013)
Kernel Score: 90% · 1,731 ratings
Genres: Drama, Crime, Mystery
First aired: 2013-03-18
Seasons: 5 · 50 episodes
Where to watch Bates Motel
- Stream: Prime Video
- Free with ads: The CW
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Fandango At Home
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
A "contemporary prequel" to the 1960 film Psycho, depicting the life of Norman Bates and his mother Norma prior to the events portrayed in Hitchcock's film, albeit in a different fictional town and in a modern setting. The series begins after the death of Norma's husband, when she purchases a motel located in a coastal Oregon town so she and Norman can start a new life.
Bates Motel parents' guide: ages 14+
Parents need to know that Bates Motel is a TV-MA psychological thriller prequel to Psycho involving a serial killer and dysfunctional family.
- Violence & scariness: Strong — Involves serial killer themes and psychological/physical menace as a prequel to Psycho.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official TV-MA rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
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- The Crowded Room (2023) — 84%
- Power Book III: Raising Kanan (2021) — 88%
- Raven's Home (2017) — 85%
- Locke & Key (2020) — 86%
Cast
- Vera Farmiga as Norma Bates
- Freddie Highmore as Norman Bates
- Max Thieriot as Dylan Massett
- Olivia Cooke as Emma Decody
- Nestor Carbonell as Alex Romero
Bates Motel FAQ
Is Bates Motel good?
Bates Motel has a 90% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,731 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Bates Motel?
In the US you can stream Bates Motel on Prime Video, watch it free with ads on The CW and buy it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and Fandango At Home.
Is Bates Motel OK for kids?
Bates Motel is rated TV-MA. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 14+. Parents need to know that Bates Motel is a TV-MA psychological thriller prequel to Psycho involving a serial killer and dysfunctional family.
What shows are like Bates Motel?
If you liked Bates Motel, try Dexter: Original Sin, Ratched, High Potential and Mare of Easttown.