Parents' Guide to

Secrets of the Whales

By Joly Herman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

Captivating, informative series about whales has some peril.

TV Disney+ Educational 2021
Secrets of the Whales Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

See all
age 10+

Based on 1 parent review

Jessica D.
Jessica D. Adult
March 31, 2023
age 10+

Some Violence

Watched 2 episodes... in the one about narwhals and belugas, there was some intensity. One whale gets stranded and later you find a polar bear eating what you're pretty sure is that whale. Scene at the end wrap has an orca eating a seal, so I'm assuming the orca episode would be intense. Sperm whale episode they hunt giant squid -- while that isn't shown, there is a dead large giant squid the photographers fish out of the water and poke and prod. To sum up: not for my sensitive kiddos.

This title has:

Too much violence
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Created by blockbuster producer James Cameron, and narrated by veteran actor Sigourney Weaver, THE SECRETS OF THE WHALES is a documentary series that lovingly explores the habitat and "culture" of whales across the world. From orca pods in Patagonia to humpback whales in Australia, the behaviors, plans, survival tactics, and creativity of whales are explored in this short series. With help from National Geographic experts and photographers, never-before-captured moments of whale behavior unfold in vivid color. Whale's songs, their family life, and their traditions are brought to life, masterfully and memorably, in this extraordinary exploration of mammalian life under water.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This inspiring, hopeful docu-series expertly illustrates the intelligence and creativity of whales across the globe. Whale's songs, their family life, and their traditions are brought to life, masterfully and memorably in The Secrets of Whales. Kids and adults will be intrigued by the narratives that are built around the challenges that whales face in order to survive. And though some perilous moments are highlighted, the larger context is kept in frame. An optimistic tone keeps an upbeat mood (it's Disney after all), encouraging kids to develop a connection with the largest mammals on the planet. The result is an immersive experience which gives a big nod to how miraculous life on our planet really is.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how animal intelligence is highlighted in Secrets of the Whales. How connected or disconnected are we to the natural world? How can we better reconnect and value other species on our planet?

  • Whales form complex relationships with their families. What can we learn about the nature of connection and love from this documentary series?

  • Human behavior puts whales at risk of survival. What can we do to help create a better environment for our fellow creatures? How do we stay optimistic when news about the planet feels overwhelming?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

See all recommended tv lists

Related Topics

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate