Shadowhunters: Cast, Story & Where To Watch | Your Ultimate Guide

Garfield Schmeler 12 May 2025

Ever wondered what it truly means to battle demons and navigate a hidden world of shadows and ancient secrets? "Shadowhunters," a series that premiered in North America on Freeform on January 12, 2016, catapults viewers into a realm where the mundane meets the mystical, and survival hinges on embracing the extraordinary.

Based on Cassandra Clare's beloved "The Mortal Instruments" book series, "Shadowhunters" follows Clary Fray, a seemingly ordinary young woman whose life is irrevocably altered when she discovers her destiny as a demon hunter. The show, developed by Ed Decter, dives headfirst into a narrative filled with action, romance, and intricate lore. As Clary delves deeper into this newfound world, she's forced to confront her identity and the dangers lurking within the Shadow World. The series quickly gained a dedicated following, captivating audiences with its blend of supernatural elements and compelling character arcs. The core cast, including Katherine McNamara, Dominic Sherwood, Alberto Rosende, and Matthew Daddario, delivers powerful performances that bring these complex characters to life, making Shadowhunters a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Actor/Character	Bio & Background	Career Highlights
Katherine McNamara Clary Fray	Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Katherine McNamara is an accomplished actress and singer. She began her acting career at a young age and is known for her roles in various television series and films.	Starred as Mia Smoak/Green Arrow in "Arrow," and has appeared in films like "Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials" and "Born on the Fourth of July." She won "Star Female in a TV Series" at the People's Choice Awards in 2018.
Dominic Sherwood Jace Wayland	Dominic Sherwood is a British actor known for his charismatic presence and dedication to his craft. His portrayal of Jace is often praised for its depth and complexity.	Appeared in "Vampire Academy" before landing the role of Jace. He has also starred in films like "Don't Sleep" and "Billionaire Ransom."
Alberto Rosende Simon Lewis	Alberto Rosende is an American actor of Colombian descent. He brings a warmth and vulnerability to Simon, making him a fan favorite.	"Shadowhunters" marks a significant role. Rosende has also appeared in stage productions and other television projects.
Matthew Daddario Alec Lightwood	Matthew Daddario is an American actor. His portrayal of Alec has earned him critical acclaim, showcasing both strength and emotional depth.	Appeared in films such as "36 Saints" and "Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List." Nominated for "Choice TV Ship" at the Teen Choice Awards.
Emeraude Toubia Isabelle Lightwood	Emeraude Toubia is a Canadian-American actress and model. Her performance as Isabelle is marked by fierce independence and style.	She has appeared in various television series and beauty pageants.
Isaiah Mustafa Luke Garroway	Isaiah Mustafa is an American actor and model. Known for his rugged good looks and commanding presence, he brings a compelling portrayal to the role.	Gained fame as "The Old Spice Guy." Has also appeared in "It Chapter Two" and "Chuck."
Harry Shum Jr. Magnus Bane	Harry Shum Jr. is a Costa Rican-born American actor, dancer, and choreographer. His portrayal of Magnus Bane is celebrated for its wit, style, and emotional depth.	Known for his role as Mike Chang in "Glee." Won "Star Male in a TV Series" at the People's Choice Awards in 2018.

Source: TV Guide - Shadowhunters Cast

The series, which premiered in January 2016 and concluded after three seasons in 2019, offered a captivating narrative arc. The story begins with Clary Fray (played by Katherine McNamara) living in New York with her mother, Jocelyn (played by Maxim Roy), leading a seemingly ordinary life. Clary spends her time working on her art and enjoying the company of her best friend, Simon Lewis (Alberto Rosende). However, everything changes when her mother disappears, and Clary learns about her connection to the Shadow World. She quickly finds herself joining a band of Shadowhunters demon-killing hunters and gets caught up in a plan to save the world. This plotline weaves together intricate relationships, compelling mysteries, and high-stakes battles, keeping audiences engaged throughout its run.

The central premise revolves around the struggle between good and evil, as Shadowhunters, Nephilim descended from angels, are tasked with protecting humanity from demons. The show dives into the moral complexities of these guardians and the challenges they face. As Clary embraces her new role, she must learn to harness her abilities, navigate the politics of the Shadow World, and confront both external threats and internal conflicts. Clary, along with Jace (Dominic Sherwood), Alec (Matthew Daddario), Isabelle (Emeraude Toubia), and others, are thrown into a world of magic and danger that tests their loyalty, courage, and the bonds of friendship.

The series explores the intricate dynamics of the Shadowhunters, their relationships with each other, and their interactions with Downworlders, including werewolves, vampires, and warlocks. The character of Simon Lewis, Clary's best friend, undergoes a significant transformation, evolving from a regular human to a vampire, adding a compelling layer of complexity to the narrative. The show also features the character of Magnus Bane (Harry Shum Jr.), a powerful warlock whose relationship with Alec Lightwood becomes a central and widely celebrated aspect of the story.

Shadowhunters is not just about the action and the fantastical creatures; it is about the characters and their personal journeys. Clary's growth as a Shadowhunter, Jace's struggle with his identity, Alec's coming to terms with his sexuality, and Simon's acceptance of his new existence all create a layered and emotional narrative. The show does not shy away from exploring themes of love, loss, loyalty, and self-discovery, which adds depth and meaning to the fantastical elements. The performances of the cast and their ability to bring these characters to life are crucial to the show's success.

The series excels in building a rich and detailed world, complete with its own rules, customs, and history. The Shadow World is full of ancient artifacts, magical creatures, and secret societies. The writers adeptly balance the action with character development, ensuring that viewers are invested in the personal lives of the characters as much as they are in the overarching plot to save the world. The series is also visually stunning, with impressive special effects and production design that contribute to the immersive experience.

One of the most notable aspects of the show is its diverse cast and its representation of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships. The relationship between Alec Lightwood and Magnus Bane, in particular, became a central point of the series, showcasing a nuanced and loving depiction of a same-sex couple. The series also features strong female characters, like Clary, Isabelle, and Jocelyn, who are portrayed as independent and complex individuals. These diverse representations were praised by audiences and critics alike, making "Shadowhunters" a pioneer of inclusivity within the genre.

The production also pays close attention to detail. For instance, the cast members themselves have a lasting reminder of their time on the show: matching angel rune tattoos. In a 2016 interview with Seventeen.com, Katherine McNamara revealed this symbol of their shared experience and bond. These matching tattoos reflect the closeness and dedication among the cast and crew, enhancing the sense of camaraderie that is apparent in the performances.

The shows impact extends beyond its narrative. It fostered a strong sense of community among its fanbase. Fans created fan art, wrote fan fiction, and engaged in discussions across various social media platforms, solidifying the series' presence in popular culture. The shows cancellation after three seasons was met with widespread disappointment, but fans rallied together to show their support. This strong connection underscores the power of "Shadowhunters" in creating a lasting impact and leaving an enduring legacy.

The show's visuals are also commendable. The action sequences are well-choreographed and visually appealing, and the special effects are skillfully integrated into the narrative. The production design expertly captures the essence of both the modern world and the gothic aesthetic of the Shadow World. From the costumes to the sets, every detail contributes to the overall visual appeal.

The series first hit television screens in January 2016 and was based on the popular book series "The Mortal Instruments" by Cassandra Clare. The show was a critical and commercial success. The series ran for three seasons on Freeform, concluding in 2019. Here's what the cast has been up to since the series wrapped up in 2019. The show had a good review of 5/5 stars.

The show received recognition, including nominations and awards. In the People's Choice Awards in 2018, Harry Shum Jr. won "Star Male in a TV Series," and Katherine McNamara won "Star Female in a TV Series." The series also received nominations such as "Choice TV Ship" for Matthew Daddario and Harry Shum Jr. and "Best Villain in a TV Series" for Anna Hopkins.

When Clary's mother is kidnapped, Clary and her best friend Simon (Alberto Rosende) meet Shadowhunter Jace (Dominic Sherwood) and embark into the Shadow World. The show is a great show; however, as with any adaptation, there are differences between the show and the books. Many viewers understand that adapting a book to a television show often necessitates leaving out certain elements. This is why it's essential not to compare the show to the books, as there will invariably be omissions. Jack played the role of Max Lightwood in the "Shadowhunters" cast. Max is Alec and Isabelle's precocious younger brother and Jace's adoptive brother. Holly played the role of Rebecca Lewis in the Shadowhunters cast. Rebecca is Simon's older sister.