Black Books 2000
What is Black Books?
Black Books is a television series that centres around a bookshop owner. The series revolves around the life of this owner and his relationships with those around him.
- Type
- TV series
- Year
- 2000
- Status
- Ended
- Episodes
- 18
- Runtime
- 25 minutes
- First aired
- Sep 29, 2000
- Last aired
- Apr 15, 2004
- Original language
- EN
- Origin
- GB
- Networks
- Channel 4
- Genres
- Comedy
- Updated
Where to watch
Stream
With ads
Stream
Free
With ads
Streaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.
How long to binge?
Estimate the schedule using 18 episodes and an average 25-minute runtime.
Trailer
Overview
Black Books is a television series that centres around a bookshop owner. The series revolves around the life of this owner and his relationships with those around him. The bookshop serves as a haven for books, wine, and conversation, providing a unique environment for its characters. The owner's personality is described as foul tempered and eccentric, contrasting with the character of his assistant, who is depicted as bearded, sweet, and good. This contrast in personalities creates a dynamic relationship between the owner and his assistant, with the assistant being subjected to relentless punishment. The group's oldest friend also plays a significant role in their lives, providing a source of distraction for the trio. The bookshop and its inhabitants form a tight-knit community, with their relationships and interactions driving the series.
Should you watch it?
“A misanthropic bookshop owner and his hapless assistant navigate chaotic, booze‑filled misadventures.”
- Sharp, character‑driven humor
- Critically acclaimed British sitcom
- Memorable contrast between Bernard’s cynicism and Manny’s sweetness
- Its bitter humor may not suit all tastes
- The bleak tone can be off‑putting for some viewers
Watch it if you enjoy dark, off‑beat comedy centered on eccentric characters.
The series features coarse language, frequent drinking, and cynical humor, making it best for mature audiences.
Ask the Vault
Ask anything about Black Books — answers are spoiler-safe.
Your verdict
Is Black Books worth watching?
Cast
Episode guide
Season 1 · 6 episodes
Open the complete Season 1 guide →- E1 Cooking the Books Sep 29, 2000
- E2 Manny's First Day Oct 6, 2000
- E3 Grapes of Wrath Oct 13, 2000
- E4 The Blackout Oct 20, 2000
- E5 The Big Lock-Out Oct 27, 2000
- E6 He's Leaving Home Nov 3, 2000
Season 2 · 6 episodes
- E1 The Entertainer Mar 1, 2002
- E2 Fever Mar 8, 2002
- E3 The Fixer Mar 15, 2002
- E4 Blood Mar 22, 2002
- E5 Hello Sun Mar 29, 2002
- E6 A Nice Change Apr 5, 2002
Season 3 · 6 episodes
- E1 Manny Come Home Mar 11, 2004
- E2 Elephants and Hens Mar 18, 2004
- E3 Moo-Ma and Moo-Pa Mar 25, 2004
- E4 A Little Flutter Apr 1, 2004
- E5 Travel Writer Apr 8, 2004
- E6 Party Apr 15, 2004
Frequently asked questions
When did Black Books first air?
The first episode was broadcast on 29 September 2000.
How many series were produced?
Three series were made, concluding on 15 April 2004.
Who are the main characters?
The show focuses on Bernard Black, his assistant Manny, and their friend Fran.
What is the setting of the show?
It is set primarily in Bernard's bookshop in Bloomsbury, London.
What genre does Black Books belong to?
It is a comedy series with a dark, absurdist tone.