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Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby is a 2018 Japanese original net animation series based on Go Nagai’s manga Devilman.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Devilman Crybaby is a 2018 Japanese original net animation series based on Go Nagai's manga Devilman. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa and released worldwide on Netflix, the series reimagines the story in the 21st century, following Akira Fudo and Ryo Asuka as demons threaten humanity. The series was produced as part of Go Nagai's 50th-anniversary commemorations.

Premise

The story follows Akira Fudo and Ryo Asuka as demons re-emerge and threaten humanity. Akira merges with a demon and becomes Devilman, gaining demonic powers while retaining a human heart.

Production

Devilman Crybaby was developed as a modern reinterpretation of Devilman for Go Nagai's 50th anniversary. It was directed by Masaaki Yuasa and animated by Science Saru, with Aniplex and Dynamic Planning involved in production.

Release

The series was released worldwide as a Netflix original on January 5, 2018. It was distributed as an original net animation rather than a traditional television broadcast series.

Reception and themes

The series is noted for its violent imagery and its modern retelling of Nagai's anti-war themes. Its narrative emphasizes human cruelty and moral collapse alongside supernatural conflict.

Key facts

  • The series is an anime adaptation of Go Nagai’s Devilman manga.
  • It was announced in 2017 and released globally on Netflix on January 5, 2018.
  • The story updates the original 1970s setting to the 21st century.
  • Akira Fudo becomes Devilman after merging with the demon Amon.
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Canadian context

Netflix made the series available internationally, including to Canadian viewers, as part of its global streaming catalogue.

Frequently asked questions

What is Devilman Crybaby?
It is a 2018 Japanese original net animation based on Go Nagai’s manga Devilman.
Who directed Devilman Crybaby?
The series was directed by Masaaki Yuasa.
When was Devilman Crybaby released?
It was released worldwide on Netflix on January 5, 2018.
What is Devilman Crybaby based on?
It is based on Go Nagai’s Devilman manga.
Who is the main character?
The main character is Akira Fudo, who becomes Devilman after merging with a demon.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devilman_Crybaby
    Supports: Synopsis, setting update, and basic series overview.
  2. Netflix — https://www.netflix.com/title/80174974
    Supports: Official streaming availability, premise, and credited cast.
  3. Wikipedia — https://www.wikipedia.org
    Supports: Director, studio, producers, release date, and format details as reported in multiple language editions.