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Black Sails 2014

“Take what's yours.”

★ 7.6/10 · 1,482 votes TV-MA DramaAction & Adventure 4 seasons · 38 eps Ended
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Quick answer

What is Black Sails?

Black Sails is an American historical action-adventure television series set on New Providence Island. Created by Robert Levine and Jonathan E.

Type
TV series
Year
2014
Status
Ended
Episodes
38
Runtime
60 minutes
First aired
Jan 25, 2014
Last aired
Apr 2, 2017
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
STARZ
Genres
Drama, Action & Adventure
Updated
Availability by region

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Estimate the schedule using 38 episodes and an average 60-minute runtime.

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Overview

Black Sails is an American historical action-adventure television series set on New Providence Island. Created by Robert Levine and Jonathan E. Steinberg, the show premiered in 2014 and ran until 2017. The narrative serves as a prequel to the 1883 novel Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, depicting events occurring twenty years prior to the book. The story follows the most feared pirate captain of his day, Captain Flint, and his crew as they hunt for treasure and fight for the survival of New Providence Island. This location is described as a notorious criminal haven, a debauched paradise populated by pirates, thieves, prostitutes, and fortune seekers. During the series, Flint encounters a fast-talking addition to his crew named John Silver. The production incorporates fictionalized versions of actual historical events and depictions of several real-life historical figures. The cast includes Toby Stephens, Hannah New, Luke Arnold, and Jessica Parker Kennedy. The series explores a world defined by both enlightened ideals and stunning brutality as the pirates face threats of extinction from all sides.

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Should you watch it?

“A gritty pirate prequel exploring survival and power on New Providence Island.”

Reasons to watch
  • Complex character development and morally ambiguous storytelling
  • Rich historical setting with strong production values
  • Sharp dialogue and intense action sequences
Keep in mind
  • Slow pacing may deter some viewers
  • Violence and moral ambiguity may not suit all tastes

You enjoy morally complex historical dramas with strong antiheroes.

Contains graphic violence, sexual content, and mature themes typical of pirate noir.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 10 episodes
Season 3 · 10 episodes
Season 4 · 10 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Is Black Sails a direct adaptation of Treasure Island?

No, it is a prequel that reimagines characters and events leading up to the novel.

Who are the main characters?

The series focuses on Captain Flint and John Silver, alongside a diverse pirate ensemble.

Is the show historically accurate?

It blends real historical figures and events with fictional storytelling.

How many seasons does it have?

The series ran for multiple seasons between its premiere and conclusion.

Is it suitable for children?

No, it is intended for mature audiences due to violence and adult themes.