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The Shannara Chronicles (2016) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

A young Healer armed with an unpredictable magic guides a runaway Elf in her perilous quest to save the peoples of the Four Lands from an age-old Demon scourge.

TV-14 • 2016 • 2 seasons

7.0
1K+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
14+

Based on the popular fantasy novels, The Shannara Chronicles follows a trio of young heroes on a quest to save their world from an army of demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for strong, recurring fantasy violence, which includes frequent sword & sorcery battles, bloody wounds, and intense fights against monstrous creatures. Some moments are surprisingly graphic, featuring torture, views of aftermaths of massacres, and… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Austin Butler
Austin Butler
Ivana Baquero
Ivana Baquero
Manu Bennett
Manu Bennett
Aaron Jakubenko
Aaron Jakubenko
Marcus Vanco
Marcus Vanco
Melise
Melise
Vanessa Morgan
Vanessa Morgan
Gentry White
Gentry White
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Is The Shannara Chronicles appropriate for kids?

Based on the popular fantasy novels, The Shannara Chronicles follows a trio of young heroes on a quest to save their world from an army of demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for strong, recurring fantasy violence, which includes frequent sword & sorcery battles… Read more — free account

Content severity in The Shannara Chronicles Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

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

Sex and nudity in The Shannara Chronicles

Sexual content remains moderate, with implied sexual encounters occurring off-screen, sometimes preceded by passionate kissing and suggestive dialogue. While no nudity is shown, there are instances of characters in states of undress, such as shirtless men or women in nightgowns. Some innuendo is present in interactions between characters.

Violence and gore in The Shannara Chronicles

Violence is frequent, strong, and often graphic for a TV-14 rating. It includes brutal battles with swords, arrows, and magical attacks against both humans and demonic creatures. Scenes feature impalement, decapitation (some graphic), dismemberment, and significant blood spray. Characters endure physical torture, and there are intense scenes of peril and frightening demonic appearances. Several characters are shown bleeding profusely from wounds.

Language in The Shannara Chronicles

Profanity is mild, with infrequent use of words like "bastard" and "bitch." Other words like "damn" or "hell" are used sparingly in moments of distress or anger. Most dialogue is free of offensive language.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in The Shannara Chronicles

Occasional social drinking of wine and ale is depicted in tavern settings or at royal gatherings. Characters are shown consuming these beverages, but intoxication is rarely a plot point and there is no emphasis on drug use.

Mature themes in The Shannara Chronicles

Central themes include discrimination and persecution of magic users by The Crimson, often leading to executions and fear. Loss and grief are present, particularly as characters mourn fallen comrades and face the consequences of their choices. The show also delves into themes of destiny, betrayal, and the struggle against overwhelming evil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Shannara Chronicles appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests The Shannara Chronicles is best for ages 14+. It's rated TV-14. Based on the popular fantasy novels, The Shannara Chronicles follows a trio of young heroes on a quest to save their world from an army of demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for strong, recurring…

What age rating does The Shannara Chronicles have?

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

What is The Shannara Chronicles about?

Based on the popular fantasy novels, The Shannara Chronicles follows a trio of young heroes on a quest to save their world from an army of demons. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for strong, recurring fantasy violence, which includes frequent sword & sorcery battles, bloody wounds, and intense fights…

How many seasons does The Shannara Chronicles have?

The Shannara Chronicles has 2 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in The Shannara Chronicles?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across The Shannara Chronicles.

How violent is The Shannara Chronicles?

Violence isn't a standout concern across The Shannara Chronicles per our reviewers.

Is the language in The Shannara Chronicles appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across The Shannara Chronicles.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in The Shannara Chronicles?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across The Shannara Chronicles.

What mature themes appear in The Shannara Chronicles?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of The Shannara Chronicles.

Where can I read the full The Shannara Chronicles parent guide?

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