Shelldon
Quirky characters overshadow messages in floundering show.
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.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that the characters in this underwater-set series are a quirky group of aquatic creatures with extreme personalities, including a few who are chronically grouchy/rude and at least one who picks on and intimidates his peers. Although the main characters deal with issues that kids will easily relate to (wishing to be the team MVP and coping with a bully, for instance), and the solutions always send messages about self-image, friendship, and respect, ultimately much of the show's positive content is lost amid the quirks of the characters themselves.
Community Reviews
GREAT SHOW FOR YOUNGER KIDS - with strong female character
Report this review
The characters need work.
Report this review
What's the Story?
SHELLDON chronicles the aquatic adventures of a young Yoka Star Shell named Shelldon (voiced by Samuel Sadovnik) and his best friends, Herman (Jason Kesser) and Connie. The trio's undersea exploits throughout their hometown of Shell Land offer plenty of opportunity for fun and games, but there's always a lesson to be learned in their escapades as well.
Is It Any Good?
Youthful sea creatures and brightly colored visuals aside, this ocean-set show is no Finding Nemo. The cast is a mish-mash of strange, exaggerated characters with over-the-top personalities, a few of whom are loud, angry, and rude. While the show does attempt to infuse the stories with kid-friendly messages about self-confidence and respect for diversity, the characters' personas are at times so distracting that their words and actions miss the mark.
What's more, Shelldon struggles to net a clear-cut set of viewers. The characters' highly imaginative nature gears it more for little kids than older ones, but some of the marginal content (name-calling like "dweeb" and clashes with bullies, for instance) aren't age-appropriate for the youngest viewers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Shelldon's life compares to that of real-life kids. Kids: Can you relate to his issues with friends and family members? What problems did he have to overcome? Who did he turn for help? What did you learn from his experiences?
Have you ever seen real-life versions of these sea creatures? How accurate do you think the characters are? Is it important to be true to life in animation? Why or why not?
How does this series compare to some of your favorite shows or movies? What makes something a "good" show to you? Which are your favorites?
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 16, 2009
- Cast: Samuel Sadovnik, Jason Kesser
- Networks: ION, NBC, qubo
- Genre: Kids' Animation
- Topics: Adventures, Friendship, Ocean Creatures
- TV rating: TV-Y7
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Phineas and Ferb
Duo's over-the-top schemes are fun for kids.
-
Pinky and the Brain
Clever toon is great fun for both kids and adults.
-
Creature Comforts (UK)
Claymation animals' social commentary is a hoot.
For kids who love animals
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