Shameless (2004)

Kernel Score: 85% · 147 ratings

Genres: Comedy, Drama

First aired: 2004-01-13

Seasons: 11 · 138 episodes

Where to watch Shameless

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

The story of a young group of siblings pretty much abandoned by their parents, surviving by their wits - and humor - on a rough Manchester council estate. Whilst they won't admit it, they need help and find it in Steve, a young middle class lad who falls for Fiona, the oldest sibling, and increasingly finds himself drawn to this unconventional and unique family. Anarchic family life seen through the eyes of an exceptionally bright fifteen year old, who struggles to come of age in the context of his belligerent father, closeted brother, psychotic sister and internet porn star neighbors.

Shameless parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that Shameless is a TV-MA dark comedy-drama about a dysfunctional, impoverished family dealing with alcoholism, drugs, and sexual content.

  • Sex, romance & nudity: Strong — Keywords cite sexual humor and internet porn star neighbors alongside mature family drama; TV-MA rated.
  • Language: Strong — TV-MA dark comedy about working-class dysfunction implies frequent strong profanity.
  • Drinking, drugs & smoking: Strong — Keywords include alcoholic father and drugs as central themes.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official TV-MA rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Cast

  • David Threlfall as Frank Gallagher
  • Nicky Evans as Shane Maguire
  • Rebecca Atkinson as Karen Maguire
  • Tina Malone as Mimi Maguire
  • Aaron McCusker as Jamie Maguire
  • Qasim Akhtar as Chesney Karib
  • Alice Barry as Lillian Tyler
  • Robbie Conway as Aidan Croker
  • Karen Bryson as Avril Powell
  • Kira Martin as Letitia Powell

Shameless FAQ

Is Shameless good?

Shameless has an 85% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 147 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Shameless?

In the US you can stream Shameless on Hulu, Britbox Apple TV channel and BritBox and watch it free with ads on The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Plex, Prime Video (free with ads) and Tubi.

Is Shameless OK for kids?

Shameless is rated TV-MA. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that Shameless is a TV-MA dark comedy-drama about a dysfunctional, impoverished family dealing with alcoholism, drugs, and sexual content.

What shows are like Shameless?

If you liked Shameless, try Shameless, Brassic, Succession and Skins.