Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quirky cartoon values diversity, friendship, and purpose.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Steven Universe
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 152 parent reviews
Parents say the show features a heartfelt storyline, engaging characters, and positive messages centered around love, acceptance, and self-discovery, making it an excellent choice for children and families. While some episodes address complex themes and include LGBTQ+ content, this often sparks meaningful discussions rather than controversy, though some parents express caution regarding darker themes that may unsettle sensitive viewers.
- emotional depth
- positive messages
- supportive characters
- complex themes
- engaging storylines
Summarized with AI
Based on 420 kid reviews
Kids say this show is a remarkable blend of fun, inclusivity, and positive messages, making it a favorite for many. Reviewers note its strong character development, engaging plot, and rich themes that resonate with both children and adults, although some episodes may include elements of violence and mature topics that could concern very young viewers.
- inclusivity
- positive messages
- character development
- engaging plot
- occasional violence
- all ages appeal
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
STEVEN UNIVERSE is an animated adventure series that centers on the youngest member of the Crystal Gems, a group of guardians tasked with protecting Earth from a variety of unwelcome visitors. Steven (voiced by Zack Callison) inherited his Gem from his late mother, and as the show progresses, his powers evolve with the help of full-fledged Gems Garnet (Estelle), Amethyst (Michaela Dietz), and Pearl (Deedee Magno Hall). Steven's dad, Greg (Tom Scharpling), is a human who compensates for his lack of superpowers with an abundance of love and protective instincts for his son.
Is It Any Good?
Created by former Adventure Time artist/writer Rebecca Sugar, this off-kilter comedy has some great messages beneath the colorful surface. Steven Universe may have moments of potty humor, and the characters love their junk food ("fry bits," donuts, and ice cream cakes in particular), but they show compassion, courage, curiosity, and teamwork—and good intentions, even if things get chaotic. As the series evolves and Steven matures, more attention is paid to his assuming equal status and responsibility among the Gems. His father, Greg, also takes on a stronger mentorship of Steven's character development, with positive results.
Like Adventure Time, Steven Universe is a cartoon that isn't just aimed at kids, thanks to some mature themes like dealing with emotions and navigating relationships. Its quirky premise and throwback animation style make it appealingly different, and viewers of all ages will likely be able to see beyond the characters' flaws to recognize their positive traits—and hopefully find inspiration in their friendship and celebration of differences.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of fantasy stories like Steven Universe. Why is it fun to imagine supernatural forces at play around us? How would it change the world if such things could be true? Which aspects of this show might be positive for our world, and which might be dangerous?
How do the characters in Steven Universe demonstrate compassion, courage, teamwork, and curiosity? Why are these important character strengths?
How is gender portrayed in Steven Universe? Do characters follow gender stereotypes? Which characters challenge traditional notions about gender? Why is it important to have an expansive view of how kids can present themselves?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 4, 2013
- Cast : Estelle , Michaela Dietz , Zach Callison
- Network : Cartoon Network
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Adventures , Aliens , Fantasy ( Magic ) , Space
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Curiosity , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Awards : Emmy - Emmy Award Winner , Emmy - Emmy Award Nominee , Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : April 20, 2026
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
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