Black Books (2000)
The gloriously chaotic British sitcom about a wine-soaked misanthrope, his bewildered assistant, and the bookshop that barely holds them together.
Black Books - Series Information
- Original Title: Black Books
- First Air Year: 2000
- Last Air Year: 2004
- Created by: Dylan Moran, Graham Linehan
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 28 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 18
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 29, 2000 (United States - TV-PG), September 29, 2000 (Canada - PG), September 29, 2000 (United Kingdom - 15), September 29, 2000 (Germany - 6), September 29, 2000 (Australia - M), September 29, 2000 (Mexico - B)
- Networks: Channel 4
- Alternative Titles: Böcker (SE), 블몷 북스 (KR), Књижара (RS), Книжная лавка Блэка (RU), Blackovo knihkupectví (CZ), Ei selsom sjappe (NO), Księgarnia Black Books (PL), Kirjava joukko (FI)
- Production Companies: Channel 4 Television, Assembly Film and Television, Big Talk Studios
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Black Books - Plot
Black Books centres around the foul tempered and wildly eccentric bookshop owner Bernard Black. Bernard's devotion to the twin pleasures of drunkenness and wilful antagonism deepens and enriches both his life and that of Manny, his assistant. Bearded, sweet and good, Manny is everything that Bernard isn't and is punished by Bernard relentlessly just for the crime of existing. They depend on each other for meaning as Fran, their oldest friend, depends on them for distraction. Black Books is a haven of books, wine and conversation, the only threat to the group's peace and prosperity is their own limitless stupidity.
Black Books - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a taste of Bernard Black's spectacularly unwelcoming bookshop:
Where to Watch Black Books
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Black Books - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Dylan Moran
- Graham Linehan
Main Cast
- Dylan Moran
- Bill Bailey
- Tamsin Greig
- Ben Homewood
- Daisy Campbell
- Paul Beech
- Graham Linehan
- Keith Allen
- Craig Parkinson
- Jiggy Bhore
Writers
- Dylan Moran
- Andy Riley
- Kevin Cecil
- Graham Linehan
- Arthur Mathews
Executive Producers
- William Burdett-Coutts
Black Books - FAQs
What is Black Books about?
Black Books is a British sitcom centred on Bernard Black, a foul-tempered, wine-loving bookshop owner in London who despises customers and responsibility in equal measure. His gentle assistant Manny and their chaotic neighbour Fran round out a trio whose surreal misadventures drive the show's anarchic humour.
Who are the main actors in Black Books?
The central trio is played by Dylan Moran as the cantankerous Bernard Black, Bill Bailey as his warm-hearted and long-suffering assistant Manny, and Tamsin Greig as their scatterbrained neighbour and closest friend Fran. All three performers also contributed to the show's writing.
Is Black Books worth watching?
Absolutely. Black Books is widely regarded as one of the finest British sitcoms of the 2000s. Critics and audiences alike praise its sharp, surreal writing, impeccable comic timing, and the extraordinary chemistry between its three leads. Its compact 18-episode run means every episode is consistently strong.
Why did Black Books end after only three seasons?
Dylan Moran and co-creator Graham Linehan chose to conclude Black Books after three series rather than risk diluting its quality. Moran in particular preferred to end the show while it was still at its creative peak, a decision that has contributed to its enduring cult reputation.
Where can you stream Black Books?
Black Books is available to stream in the United States on several free platforms, including The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads, Tubi TV, Plex, and Fawesome. Availability may vary by region, so checking JustWatch is the easiest way to find current options near you.
How many episodes does Black Books have?
Black Books ran for three series across 18 episodes, with each series containing six episodes. The show aired on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom between 2000 and 2004. Each episode runs approximately 28 minutes, making the entire series easy to revisit in a single weekend.
Did Black Books win any awards?
Yes. Black Books won the BAFTA Award for Best Situation Comedy in 2001 for its debut series, a significant recognition that cemented its place among the best British comedies of its era. The show and its cast also received further nominations throughout its run.
What are similar shows to Black Books?
Fans of Black Books tend to enjoy The IT Crowd and Father Ted, both sharing Graham Linehan's distinctive comic sensibility. Spaced offers a similarly surreal British workplace dynamic, while Fawlty Towers is the classic antecedent for misanthropic hospitality humour. Saxondale also features Dylan Moran's comedic universe.
More About Black Books
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