Watch and Download Black Butler: Total Episodes, Seasons Characters
If you’re a fan of dark fantasy anime with a unique Victorian twist, Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji) stands out as a must-watch series. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Black Butler—from its IMDb rating and in-depth review to its main characters, episode and season guides, and a look into streaming, download options, and the legal landscape (including Animohub). This is your ultimate guide to immersing yourself in the world of Black Butler.
What Is Black Butler?
Black Butler is an anime and manga series set in Victorian-era England. The series centers on the young nobleman Ciel Phantomhive, who, after experiencing the traumatic murder of his parents, makes a Faustian contract with a demon named Sebastian Michaelis. In exchange for his soul, Sebastian becomes his loyal butler, assisting Ciel in seeking revenge on those who destroyed the Phantomhive family. The series blurs the lines between morality, revenge, and the supernatural, blending gothic aesthetics with complex character arcs and intricate storylines.
IMDb Rating
- IMDb Score: Black Butler (anime TV series, 2008–2011) holds a 7.6/10 rating based on over 11,000 user reviews.
- Film Adaptation: The 2014 live-action movie scored a 6.1/10 on IMDb.
These ratings reflect the show’s popularity among anime fans and the broader audience, highlighting its engaging narrative and unique thematic choices.
Black Butler Review
Fans and critics often praise Black Butler for its dark, atmospheric setting and original plot. The characters are complex and memorable, particularly the dynamic between Ciel Phantomhive and Sebastian Michaelis. As Earl of Phantomhive, Ciel’s tragic past and sharp intellect make him a formidable figure, while Sebastian, with his supernatural strength and unshakeable composure, steals countless scenes.
Viewer Insights
- Storytelling: The anime explores themes of revenge, loyalty, and morality, while integrating supernatural horror and dark comedy.
- Faithful Adaptation? Early seasons, especially the first, diverge from the manga after the sixth episode, introducing anime-original plots. Later entries, such as Book of Circus, Book of Murder, and Book of the Atlantic return to the manga’s roots with greater fidelity.
- Criticism: Some viewers noted rushed character development in antagonists and minor characters in the initial anime, though this was improved upon in later arcs and films.
What the Fans Say
“This is by far one of the best series! It has mystery, drama, comic relief and involves the supernatural world…”
– IMDb user review
“Black Butler’s captivating ensemble cast defies typical anime stereotypes, with characters like Ciel and Sebastian challenging expectations.”
– GameRant
Main Characters
Here’s a rundown of the central characters you’ll meet on your journey into Black Butler:
| Character | Role & Traits |
|---|---|
| Ciel Phantomhive | The young earl and Queen’s Watchdog, whose quest for revenge drives the series. Tactical, cold, shrewed. |
| Sebastian Michaelis | Ciel’s demon butler—impossibly skilled, charming, and concealing a deep, enigmatic backstory. |
| Baldroy | The gruff chef and former US Army veteran. Guard and protector of the manor. |
| Finnian | The innocent-looking gardener with superhuman strength due to experimentatio. |
| Mey-Rin | The clumsy but deadly-accurate maid and skilled marksman. |
| Grelle Sutcliff | The colorful, formidable Grim Reaper who oscillates between comedic and deadly serious. |
| Undertaker | The cryptic informant and sometimes antagonist—holds secrets and power to rival even Sebastian. |
Each plays a distinct role, forming a team that balances mystery, action, dark humor, and emotional resonance.
Total Episodes and Seasons
Black Butler has evolved over the years, spanning several seasons, specials, OVAs, and even movies. As of 2025, here’s the breakdown:
| Season/Installment | Year | Episodes | Noted Arc or Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 2008 | 24 | Introduces main characters, original anime arc. |
| Season 2 | 2010 | 12 | Anime-original story; introduces new characters. |
| Season 3: Book of Circus | 2014 | 10 | Adaptation of “Noah’s Ark Circus” manga arc. |
| OVA: Book of Murder | 2014 | 2 | Mystery/crime-focused OVA. |
| Film: Book of the Atlantic | 2017 | 1 (Movie) | Manga “Luxury Liner” arc adaptation. |
| Season 4: Public School Arc | 2024 | 11 | New season following the manga storyline. |
| Season 5 | 2025 | 10 | Latest season, details to be released. |
Total episodes (excluding OVAs/movies): 67 (seasons 1-5, as of 2025)
Add OVAs and movies, and the list grows for completionists!
Where to Watch and Download Black Butler
Legal Streaming Options
- Netflix: Seasons 1-3 available in multiple regions, both dubbed and subbed.
- Crunchyroll: Streams Black Butler: Public School Arc and may offer previous seasons depending on territory.
- Funimation & Hulu: Earlier seasons available in select regions.
- Home Video Release: Funimation (DVD/Blu-ray) for collectors.
Purchase and Rental
- Google Play, YouTube, Microsoft Store, Amazon, Vudu: Purchase or rent certain OVAs and the movie Book of the Atlantic.
- Physical Copies: Widely available for purchase through retailers.
Animohub
Animohub is discussed in many online forums as a streaming destination for anime, including Black Butler. However, most versions of Animohub are not licensed distributors. Streaming or downloading Black Butler from such unofficial sources may violate copyright laws and could risk malware exposure or poor video quality. Always prioritize legal platforms to support the creators and ensure the best viewing experience.
Watch Order and Canon
With OVAs, original anime-only arcs, and faithful manga adaptations, knowing the best way to watch Black Butler can be confusing. The most widely recommended order includes:
- Season 1 (episodes 1–15 for manga continuity)
- Book of Circus (Season 3)
- Book of Murder (OVA)
- Book of the Atlantic (Movie)
- Public School Arc (Season 4, 2024)
- Season 2 (optional, anime-original story)
Is Black Butler Worth Watching?
Absolutely—Black Butler is a modern classic that blends Gothic horror, supernatural mystery, dark comedy, and engaging character drama. Appreciated for its art, unique soundtrack, and daring narrative choices, it has something for fans of anime, detective mysteries, and historical fiction alike.
Enjoy your journey with Ciel and Sebastian through the shadows of Victorian England, but remember—there’s always more to the butler than meets the eye!
