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Shadowhunters (2016) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

When Clary Fray's mother has disappeared, Clary joins a band of Shadowhunters; demon killing hunters, and gets caught up in a plan to save the world.

TV-14 • 2016 • 3 seasons

7.6
1K+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
14+

Based on the popular young adult book series 'The Mortal Instruments,' this supernatural fantasy follows a teen girl who discovers she is part of a secret race of human-angel hybrids who hunt demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for frequent and sometimes graphic supernatural violence, which includes numerous battles with bladed weapons, stabbings, and some gory deaths and scenes of torture. Sexual content consists of… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Katherine McNamara
Katherine McNamara
Dominic Sherwood
Dominic Sherwood
Alberto Rosende
Alberto Rosende
Matthew Daddario
Matthew Daddario
Harry Shum Jr.
Harry Shum Jr.
Anna Hopkins
Anna Hopkins
Emeraude Toubia
Emeraude Toubia
Isaiah Mustafa
Isaiah Mustafa
Alisha Wainwright
Alisha Wainwright
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Is Shadowhunters appropriate for kids?

Based on the popular young adult book series 'The Mortal Instruments,' this supernatural fantasy follows a teen girl who discovers she is part of a secret race of human-angel hybrids who hunt demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for frequent and sometimes graphic… Read more — free account

Content severity in Shadowhunters Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Strong 6/10
Language Moderate 4/10
Sex/Nudity Moderate 4/10
Violence/Gore Intense 8/10
Mature Themes Intense 8/10

Sex and nudity in Shadowhunters

Mild sexual content is present, primarily through romantic interactions, passionate kissing, and implied intimacy. Male characters are occasionally shown shirtless, and female characters wear revealing outfits in some scenes. The topic of incest is briefly alluded to regarding two characters, though it is quickly dismissed as a false premise.

Violence and gore in Shadowhunters

Moderate fantasy violence is a core component of the series, featuring frequent battles against demons and other supernatural creatures. Characters use various weapons like swords and staffs, resulting in combat scenes with stabbings, impalements, and dissections of creatures. Demons often dissolve into ash or burst into green slime upon death. Some scenes show blood, particularly when characters are injured or when demons are dispatched. A character is graphically stabbed in the chest with a sword in one episode.

Language in Shadowhunters

Mild language is used sparingly throughout the season. Words like 'damn,' 'hell,' and 'bitch' appear infrequently, usually in moments of stress or frustration. There is no strong or pervasive profanity.

Mature themes in Shadowhunters

Central themes include identity and self-discovery as Clary learns about her Shadowhunter heritage. The season explores destiny versus free will, the complexities of family relationships (both biological and chosen), and prejudices between different supernatural races. Grief and loss are also touched upon, particularly through flashbacks and character backstories related to past attacks and disappearances.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shadowhunters appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Shadowhunters is best for ages 14+. It's rated TV-14. Based on the popular young adult book series 'The Mortal Instruments,' this supernatural fantasy follows a teen girl who discovers she is part of a secret race of human-angel hybrids who hunt demons. The series earns…

What age rating does Shadowhunters have?

Shadowhunters is rated TV-14. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 14+.

What is Shadowhunters about?

Based on the popular young adult book series 'The Mortal Instruments,' this supernatural fantasy follows a teen girl who discovers she is part of a secret race of human-angel hybrids who hunt demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for frequent and sometimes graphic supernatural violence, which includes…

How many seasons does Shadowhunters have?

Shadowhunters has 3 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Shadowhunters?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Shadowhunters.

How violent is Shadowhunters?

Violence isn't a standout concern across Shadowhunters per our reviewers.

Is the language in Shadowhunters appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Shadowhunters.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Shadowhunters?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Shadowhunters.

What mature themes appear in Shadowhunters?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Shadowhunters.

Where can I read the full Shadowhunters parent guide?

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