For fans of the supernatural and the uncanny, the recent conclusion of the first cour of the new Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube anime adaptation has left viewers eagerly anticipating its return. The iconic series, known for its blend of horror, comedy, and heartwarming tales of a demon-handed teacher protecting his students, delivered a climactic Episode 13 that wrapped up its initial run with significant events and a clear setup for future challenges.
The Enduring Legacy of Nube
Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube (地獄先生ぬ〜べ〜, Jigoku Sensei Nūbē) originated as a Japanese manga series written by Shō Makura and illustrated by Takeshi Okano. It was serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1993 to 1999, amassing 31 tankōbon volumes. The story centers on Meisuke Nueno, affectionately known as “Nube,” a homeroom teacher at Dōmori Elementary. Far more than just an educator, Nube is a skilled exorcist who uses power borrowed from a formidable demon sealed within his left hand—dubbed the “Demon’s Hand”—to defend his students and the town from a constant barrage of supernatural threats.
The franchise has seen multiple adaptations over the years, including a popular 49-episode television anime series from 1996 to 1997, several anime films and OVAs, and a live-action drama in 2014. The original manga’s run ended in 1999, but its universe continued with sequel manga like Jigoku Sensei Nube Neo (2014-2018) and Jigoku Sensei Nube S (2018-2021). A new manga series, Jigoku Sensei Nube Kai, also debuted in May 2025.
The 2025 Anime Adaptation: A Fresh Take on a Classic
A new anime adaptation of Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube was announced in July 2024 and premiered on July 2, 2025. This latest iteration is being produced by Studio KAI and is directed by Yasuyuki Ōishi, with Yoshiki Ōkusa handling series composition. The series is scheduled to air in two split cours (quarters of a year), with the first cour concluding recently and the second cour set to premiere in January 2026.
Recapping the First Cour Finale: Episode 13
Episode 13 marks the conclusion of the first cour of the 2025 anime adaptation, delivering a poignant and action-packed narrative. Unlike some more action-heavy preceding episodes, this finale focuses on Nube’s personal struggle and the unwavering bond he shares with his students.
Nube’s Dire Predicament
The episode sees Nube in a compromised state, infected with a “particularly horrid sentient/supernatural tumor thing (Jinmenso)” that prevents his powerful Demon’s Hand from functioning. This affliction is a direct consequence of Nube’s self-sacrificing nature, having contracted the infection while saving a young girl. The sight of Nube, usually the protector, being vulnerable and dejected, highlights the severity of the threat.
The Students’ Devotion and Unexpected Alliances
With Nube’s powers nullified, the responsibility of saving him falls to his devoted students. The episode emphasizes their love and trust in Nube, showcasing their determination to rescue their teacher. Efforts to seek help from the fox spirit Tamamo prove unsuccessful initially.
In a desperate turn, Katsuya revisits Hatamonba’s shrine to retrieve a cursed sword that had previously threatened him. The solution to Nube’s predicament involves pitting two formidable yokai against each other, a testament to the unpredictable nature of the supernatural world Nube inhabits. Miki’s returning ability to stretch her neck also plays a role, adding a touch of the series’ characteristic quirkiness.
Resolution and Future Implications
Ultimately, the Jinmenso is dissected, and Hatamonba is dispatched, bringing a temporary resolution to the immediate crisis. The episode is noted for its exploration of melancholy and anxiety, a departure from typical kids’ action shows, yet it beautifully portrays warm, non-romantic human relationships, especially the bond between Nube and his students. The final moments, where a beloved student embraces Nube, serve as a strong emotional anchor for the series’ core themes.
The first cour’s ending successfully sets the stage for the second cour, which is slated for January 2026, leaving viewers eager to see how the character developments and ongoing supernatural mysteries will unfold.
Other Noteworthy “Finales”
While the 2025 anime’s first cour finale is currently most relevant, other adaptations have also concluded their runs:
Original Anime (1996-1997)
The original 1996 TV anime series ran for 49 episodes. Episode 48 is often regarded by fans as the “actual finale,” with episode 49 being a clip show that provides a send-off to the characters. The ending focused on Nube’s profound love for his students, particularly through the character of Kyoko.
Live-Action Drama (2014)
The live-action adaptation, which aired in 2014, concluded after 10 episodes. While praised for its casting, particularly Ryuhei Maruyama as Nube, and its comedic elements, some viewers felt the final episode was “not handled well” and that the main villain’s storyline was “exasperating”. Despite these criticisms, the drama’s ending reinforced Nube’s dedication to protecting his students, allowing him to overcome personal fears and admit his faults.
As Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube continues its journey through various media, each finale offers a unique perspective on the beloved exorcist and his endless battle against the supernatural to safeguard the innocent. The latest anime adaptation promises to carry this legacy forward, with its second cour poised to deliver more thrilling adventures in Domori.
