Tucked away in the English countryside lies the ominous manor of the Phantomhives, a family which has established itself as the cold and ruthless "Queen's Watchdog" as well as the head of London's criminal underground. After a tragedy leaves the Earl and his wife dead, many are shocked when their son, a young boy named Ciel, claims his place as the new Earl of the Phantomhive house. At first, many perceive him only as a child surrounded by a few eccentric servants. But they soon begin to realize that it is foolish to meddle with Ciel and his demonic butler Sebastian.

Taking place at the end of the 19th century, Kuroshitsuji follows these two as they face countless mysteries and dangers that plague England and threaten the Queen, uncovering the truth about what really happened to Ciel's parents in the process.

In 2014, it was announced via the official Twitter that Kuroshitsuji has sold more than 20 million copies worldwide.

The series has been published in English as Black Butler by Yen Press since January 26, 2010, and digitally since April 8, 2014. It has also been simulpub by Yen Press. It is also published in French by Kana since November 2009; in German by Carlsen Comics; in Italian by Panini Comics; in Polish by Waneko since February 2011; in Spanish by Norma Editorial since November 2011; in Brazilian Portuguese by Panini Comics since July 2012.

The manga has been adapted into drama CDs released from August 10, 2007, and November 26, 2008; multiple video games; a musical titled Kuroshitsuji: The Most Beautiful DEATH in The World that was held from May 3, 2010, to May 23, 2010; and a live-action film on January 18, 2014.