Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this thriller series is the epitome of a know-your-kid scenario. Its mature content ensures kids and tweens are out, and if your teens are sensitive to violence or the concept of the paranormal, then it's not for them either. Excessive graphic violence is the main concern, with torture, beatings, gunfire, stabbings, beheadings, and the like portrayed as everyday occurrences for the characters. Likewise, the idea that unseen evil forces are constantly at play, threatening human existence itself, will cause some angst among all but the sturdiest viewers. Add to that the common use of strong language like "damn," "bitch," and "hell," as well as the characters' (especially Dean's) casual attitude toward sex and objectification of women, and it's clear this one's best for older viewers. That said, those who tune in will be treated to a well crafted series that's as much about family bonds and raw human emotion as it is about the paranormal.

Sexual Content

Dean especially often lusts after beautiful women, making suggestive comments about their sex appeal and how he'd like to sleep with them. In many cases, the content implies that he's enjoyed a one-night stand with a woman, and some segments do show couples making out or rolling around in bed. Nudity is usually limited to shirtless guys or the naked backs of women.

Violence

Prevalent graphic violence includes fatalities by fire, gunshot, stabbing, beheading, explosions, and suicide. Some plotlines center on creatures of folklore that prey on children. Characters on both sides of the moral divide are tortured at length for information, and many are possessed by demons, infected by vampires, or killed simply because of their relationship with the Winchester brothers.

Language

Common use of "damn," "bitch," "ass," and "hell."

Social Behavior

The series explores the strength of family bonds, as Dean and Sam's loyalty is constantly tested by evil forces. In many cases, the heroes are forced to weigh the common good against their own devotion to each other. Demons and other evil characters have ulterior motives and use the brothers' sense of humanity against them, forcing the guys to kill the people they've possessed, for instance. Throughout the show's run, enemies have changed to include werewolves, witches, and even heaven's angels.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Beer is a mainstay in the guys' diet; when they're not fighting monsters, they're usually shown with a drink in hand.