Sabrina, The Teenage Witch
A great pick
Ages 8–13First shown 1996
Based on the Archie comic book series of the same name. The show stars Melissa Joan Hart as Sabrina Spellman, an American teenage half-witch who, on her sixteenth birthday, discovers she has magical powers. She lives with her 600-year-old aunts, European witches Hilda and Zelda, and their magical talking cat Salem in the fictional town of Westbridge, Massachusetts through most of the series.
Our verdict
- Good influence 5/5
- Parent appeal 4/5
- Well made 4/5
No grating audio
Reviewers largely praise the show for its clever writing and positive moral lessons, noting that it effectively uses magic as a metaphor for the challenges of growing up. While some find the 90s production values and laugh tracks a bit dated, most agree that the sharp wit and charming performances make it an enjoyable experience for both children and parents.
Why these scores
Good influence
Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?
5out of 5
The series is highly regarded for its positive messages, portraying the lead as a diligent and compassionate girl who prioritises school, friendship, and personal growth. Most reviews highlight that magic is used as a metaphor for adolescent struggles, where shortcuts through spells inevitably lead to negative consequences that require honest repair. While some critics point out occasional sneaky behaviour or mature references to alcohol and sex in certain episodes, the overall consensus is that the show provides strong moral guidance through supportive adult characters.
Parent appeal
Will you enjoy watching it with them?
4out of 5
Reviewers are somewhat divided, though a majority find the show's wit, sharp dialogue, and historical or political references highly engaging for adults. Many parents describe it as a 'comfy' watch that holds up well over time, often citing the dry humour of the cat, Salem, as a highlight. However, a small number of commentators found the sitcom format and puns tedious or felt the show lacked sufficient depth to appeal to grown-ups without the benefit of nostalgia.
Well made
Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?
4out of 5
The show is generally praised for its clever, screwball-style writing and the strong comedic timing of its lead and ensemble cast. While the visual effects and costume design were considered high-quality for its era—even earning award recognition—some modern reviews note that the 90s graphics and the mechanical puppet cat can appear dated. There is also noted inconsistency in the later seasons, with some viewers finding the college-era writing and plot resolutions less inspired than the early episodes.
Watch-outs
Overstimulating: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Toy-led: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
No grating audio
There are several mentions of an irritating or dated laugh track that may bother some viewers, and one critic strongly disliked a later version of the theme music. However, other reviews describe the audio as functional and the dialogue as clear, suggesting these elements do not reach the level of a consistent, show-wide problem.
Where to watch
Stream for free
- Not that we know of
Stream with a subscription
- Not that we know of
Rent or buy
- Not that we know of
DVD and Blu-ray
Last updated 18 October 2026.