H2O: Just Add Water

Three ordinary teenage girls in a beachside town change their lives after a strange encounter with seawater leaves them with the ability to turn into mermaids, complete with tails and the need to avoid getting wet in public. The series follows Cleo, Rikki and Bella as they juggle school, friendships, family tensions and budding romances while keeping their secret from anyone who might exploit them. Along the way they learn how to use their new powers, deal with jealousy and rivalry, and cope with the complications that come when being a teenager combines with supernatural responsibility, all without revealing major plot twists or the series' later developments.

Created by Jonathan M. Shiff and first released in 2006, H2O: Just Add Water introduced Phoebe Tonkin, Cariba Heine and Indiana Evans in the lead roles, with Luke Mitchell and Burgess Abernethy among the supporting cast. The show originated in Australia and quickly drew attention from young viewers abroad.

The series earned recognition within youth and children's television circles, picking up nominations and awards at regional and genre-specific ceremonies. Cast performances, particularly the chemistry among the leads, were singled out in several teen-oriented polls and festival lineups.

H2O left a clear mark on mid-2000s teen pop culture, especially among viewers who grew up with it. Its transformation sequences, beachside setting and blend of surf culture with supernatural elements made it a frequent subject of fan art, online discussion and themed events. Costumes, hair styles and soundtrack moments from the show became nostalgic reference points for its audience.

Critics and fans gave H2O generally positive feedback, reflected in a 7.8/10 vote average from user ratings. Viewers praised its lighthearted approach, character chemistry and mix of everyday teen issues with fantasy elements. Central themes include friendship, identity, secrecy and the awkwardness of growing up while holding on to something extraordinary.