Fans of the anime adaptation of Bleach have been waiting a long time for this news. After many years, we’re now finally ready to see the final story arc play out on our screens, almost. After weeks and months of rumors circulating around the internet, Viz Media has revealed where fans can stream the simulcast of the series as it airs.
In a social media post that hit the internet on the morning of Monday, October 3rd, it was officially confirmed that fans in the United States will be able to watch Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War on Hulu while fans outside of the United States (more specifically, fans around the world excluding Asia and Arabic-Speaking Africa/Middle East) will be able to watch it on Disney+. It was further confirmed that the English dub will feature the original voice actors reprising their roles. The series will premiere on the above-mentioned streaming services at 8:30am Pacific Time on Monday, October 10th, though fans attending New York Comic Con will have the chance to see an advanced screening on October 8th.
Along with these announcements, an official plot synopsis was provided by Viz Media. I warn you, though that if you’re not 100% caught up with the story, you might stumble across some spoilers so read the following with caution:
Was it all just a coincidence, or was it inevitable?
Ichigo Kurosaki gained the powers of a Soul Reaper through a chance encounter. As a Substitute Soul Reaper, Ichigo became caught in the turmoil of the Soul Society, a place where deceased souls gather. But with help from his friends, Ichigo overcame every challenge to become even stronger.
When new Soul Reapers and a new enemy appear in his hometown of Karakura, Ichigo jumps back into the battlefield with his Zanpakuto to help those in need. Meanwhile, the Soul Society is observing a sudden surge in the number of Hollows being destroyed in the World of the Living. They also receive separate reports of residents in the Rukon District having gone missing. Finally, the Seireitei, home of the Soul Reapers, comes under attack by a group calling themselves the Wandenreich.
Led by Yhwach, the father of all Quincies, the Wandenreich declare war against the Soul Reapers with the following message: “Five days from now, the Soul Society will be annihilated by the Wandenreich.”
The history and truth kept hidden by the Soul Reapers for a thousand long years is finally brought to light.
All things must come to an end—as Ichigo Kurosaki’s final battle begins!
Sources: Crunchyroll News, Anime News Network
