Hershey is a 2026 American biographical drama directed by Mark Waters and written by Sharon Paul and Timothy Michael Hayes. The film stars Finn Wittrock, Alexandra Daddario, Alan Ruck, Richard Kind, and David Costabile.
It tells the inspiring true story of chocolate pioneer Milton S. Hershey and his wife, Catherine “Kitty” Hershey, as they overcome business setbacks, personal heartbreak, and ultimately dedicate their fortune to helping orphaned children through education and philanthropy.
Based on the lives of the real Hersheys, the film arrives in theaters on November 25, 2026, distributed by Angel Studios.
Hershey Age Rating
Hershey is officially rated PG for some thematic elements and brief language. The film contains no graphic violence, sexual material, or frightening scenes, making it one of the more family-friendly historical dramas of the year. The PG rating is primarily due to emotional themes surrounding loss, financial hardship, and the challenges faced by orphaned children. While younger children may not fully understand some historical and emotional moments, the overall tone remains uplifting, hopeful, and educational.
Violence & Peril
Violence is very mild throughout the film. There are no fight scenes, shootings, or graphic injuries. Most conflicts involve business failures, financial disagreements, and emotional confrontations rather than physical danger. Some scenes depict the difficult living conditions experienced by poor families and orphaned children during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Characters experience emotional loss and disappointment, but these moments are handled gently without disturbing imagery. The overall atmosphere is warm and inspirational rather than tense or frightening.
Language
Language is very mild. Parents can expect a few instances of brief mild profanity or period-appropriate expressions. There are no strong swear words, sexual language, racial slurs, or offensive insults. Most conversations remain respectful and suitable for family audiences.
Mature Themes
The film explores several mature themes in a thoughtful and accessible way. Business failures, financial struggles, and personal grief play important roles in the story. The inability of Milton and Kitty Hershey to have children is addressed with sensitivity and emotional depth. The movie also depicts poverty and the hardships experienced by orphaned children, emphasizing compassion and generosity rather than despair. There is no nudity, sexual content, drug use, or alcohol abuse. Smoking may appear occasionally as part of the historical setting, but it is neither emphasized nor glorified.
Is Hershey Suitable for Kids?
Ages 5–8: With Guidance. Young children can watch the film, but they may find the slower pacing and emotional themes difficult to understand. Parents may need to explain the historical setting and some scenes involving loss or hardship.
Ages 9–12: Yes. Most older children should be able to enjoy the inspiring story. The themes of perseverance, kindness, generosity, and helping others make it an excellent educational family film with very little objectionable content.
Ages 13 and Up: Yes. Teenagers are likely to appreciate the historical drama, strong performances, and real-life message about using success to improve the lives of others. The emotional themes are mature without becoming overwhelming.
Overall recommendation: Hershey is appropriate for most viewers ages 9 and older, while younger children can enjoy it with parental guidance because of its emotional themes and historical context.
What Parents Can Do
- Explain the historical background of industrial America and discuss how Milton Hershey built one of the world’s most recognizable chocolate companies.
- Talk with children about philanthropy and why the Hersheys chose to use their wealth to help orphaned children instead of keeping it for themselves.
- Encourage a discussion after the movie about perseverance, compassion, generosity, and overcoming setbacks in life.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: Is Hershey (2026) rated PG?
A: Yes. Hershey is officially rated PG for some thematic elements and brief language.
Q: Is Hershey appropriate for children?
A: Yes. It is a wholesome historical drama with positive messages, although younger children may need help understanding some emotional moments.
Q: Does Hershey contain violence or scary scenes?
A: Very little. There is no graphic violence, and conflicts are mainly emotional or business-related.
Q: Does the movie contain strong language?
A: No. Only brief, mild language appears, with no strong profanity or offensive slurs.
Q: Is there any sexual content or nudity?
A: No. The film contains only wholesome romantic moments such as brief kissing and affectionate interactions between husband and wife.
Q: Where can you watch Hershey?
A: Hershey is scheduled to release exclusively in theaters on November 25, 2026, through Angel Studios.