Shadow Hunter (TV series)

Shadowhunters, also known as Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments, is an American supernatural drama television series developed by Ed Decter, based on the young adult fantasy novel series The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare. It premiered on Freeform on January 12, 2016, and ran for three seasons, concluding on May 6, 2019.

The series follows Clary Fray, a young woman who discovers on her eighteenth birthday that she is not who she thinks she is, but rather comes from a long line of Shadowhunters: human-angel hybrids who hunt down demons. When her mother Jocelyn is kidnapped, Clary is thrown into the world of Shadowhunters with Jace Wayland and his fellow warriors Isabelle and Alec Lightwood. She is aided by her best friend, Simon Lewis, and eventually must confront the forces of the Shadow World, including Downworlders like vampires, warlocks, and werewolves, as well as powerful demons.

The main cast includes Katherine McNamara as Clary Fray, Dominic Sherwood as Jace Wayland, Alberto Rosende as Simon Lewis, Emeraude Toubia as Isabelle Lightwood, Matthew Daddario as Alec Lightwood, Harry Shum Jr. as Magnus Bane, and Isaiah Mustafa as Luke Garroway.

Shadowhunters faced mixed reviews throughout its run. While it gained a significant and dedicated fanbase, particularly among young adults, critics often noted inconsistencies in its adaptation of the source material, as well as its special effects and acting quality, particularly in the first season. The series improved over time, with later seasons receiving more positive feedback for their character development and storyline.

Freeform cancelled Shadowhunters after three seasons, citing financial reasons. However, a two-part series finale was produced to provide closure to the storylines. The show has continued to have a strong presence online and through streaming services, and remains a popular adaptation of The Mortal Instruments novels.