On the surface,Black Butlermay not seem like a typical success in mainstream anime or manga. Unlike many popular series set in futuristic worlds or Japan, its story unfolds in Victorian England. Additionally, its characters lack the exaggerated heroic qualities seen in series likeMy Hero AcademiaorDragon Ball Z. Yet, despite these differences,Black Butlerhas thrived in Japan since its debut in 2006, maintaining a dedicated fanbase and enduring popularity.
Now theBlack Butlermanga, which has been on hiatus since June 2024, is gearing up for its conclusion.According to the April issue of Square Enix’sG Fantasymagazine, Yana Toboso’sBlack Butleris set to resume in the May 2025 issue. The series took a 10-month break to allow its creator to conduct research and prepare as the story moves closer to its long-awaited climax.
Black Butler Has a Rich History of Adaptations
A Dark Tale of Revenge and Supernatural Bonds
Black Butlerbegan as a manga by Yana Toboso, serialized in Square Enix’sMonthly GFantasysince June 07, 2025. The series has inspired several anime adaptations: the first season aired from October 2008 to March 2009, the second from July to September 2010, andBlack Butler: Book of Circusfrom July to September 2014. A two-part OVA,Black Butler: Book of Murder, was released in late 2014.
The series also includes two films: a live-action adaptation released in January 2014, and an animated film,Black Butler: Book of the Atlantic, which premiered in January 2017. A fourth season,Black Butler: Public School Arc, aired from April to June 2024, with a fifth season,Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc, scheduled for April 2025.
Set in Victorian-era England,Black Butlerfollows Ciel Phantomhive, a young earl who serves as the Queen’s Watchdog, solving crimes in the underworld. After the tragic death of his parents and his own abduction, Ciel forms a contract with a demon, Sebastian Michaelis, who becomes his loyal butler. In exchange for assisting Ciel in seeking revenge against those who wronged him, Sebastian will consume Ciel’s soul once the task is complete. Throughout the series, they encounter various characters, including other servants of the Phantomhive household and supernatural beings, as they navigate a dark world filled with mystery and intrigue.
More Black Butler Anime Content Is on the Horizon
Approaching the Final Act
Black Butlerfans have more anime content to anticipate. The upcomingBlack Butler: Emerald Witch Arcis set to adapt Chapters 86 to 107 of the manga. With the manga currently at 175 chapters, the anime is still about 68 chapters behind, leaving ample material for future adaptations.
Black Butler - Emerald Witch Arc Reveals Official Trailer & Release Window
Black Butler will be returning for season 5 with the exciting Emerald Witch Arc which has finally received a new trailer and a 2025 release window.
Black Butleris heading into its final arc, bringing Ciel and Sebastian’s story close to its conclusion after nearly two decades. While new anime adaptations are still on the way, the manga’s ending will mark a major milestone for the series. As the last chapters unfold, the long-running story will finally reach its long-awaited climax, cementingBlack Butler’s unconventional place in manga and anime history.
Black Butler
Cast
Black Butler is an anime series set in Victorian-era England, revolving around Ciel Phantomhive, a young nobleman, and his enigmatic butler, Sebastian Michaelis. Sebastian, who is more than he seems, aids Ciel in seeking revenge on those who wronged his family. The series combines elements of dark fantasy, mystery, and supernatural themes, portraying their complex relationship and the lengths they will go to achieve their goals.
