by Fans of DEATH NOTE have a special reason to revisit the iconic psychological thriller this November. To commemorate the in-story death anniversary of the legendary detective L, Japanese streaming platform ABEMA is presenting a free, back-to-back marathon of the complete 37-episode TV anime.
The special broadcast begins on November 5, 2026, at 3:00 PM JST on ABEMA’s Anime SPECIAL channel. A second marathon will follow on November 6, giving viewers another opportunity to experience the complete series. In addition, all 37 episodes will remain available for free on the platform for one week after the broadcast.
The timing is particularly meaningful for fans because November 5 is recognised as L’s death anniversary within the DEATH NOTE storyline. The event also arrives during the 20th anniversary year of the television anime, which originally began broadcasting in October 2006.
The marathon allows longtime viewers to revisit the intense rivalry between Light Yagami and L, while newcomers can experience the complete story of one of anime’s most famous battles of intelligence.
DEATH NOTE: All 37 Episodes to Be Available for Free on ABEMA
ABEMA has announced a special free marathon of the DEATH NOTE television anime to mark November 5, the anniversary of L’s death in the story.
The event will feature all 37 episodes, broadcast continuously across two scheduled marathon windows. Viewers can watch the series on the Anime SPECIAL channel.
The first broadcast began on Thursday, November 5, at 3:00 PM JST and is scheduled to continue until Friday, November 6, at 9:30 AM JST.
The second broadcast will begin immediately afterwards, at 9:30 AM on November 6, and continue until 4:00 AM on Saturday, November 7.
For viewers who cannot stay awake or watch every episode during the marathon, ABEMA is also providing a one-week free catch-up viewing period after the broadcast.
This means fans do not necessarily have to watch all 37 episodes in one sitting. They can use the free streaming period to catch up on episodes they missed, subject to ABEMA’s regional and platform availability.
What Is DEATH NOTE About?
DEATH NOTE is a psychological suspense anime based on the manga written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The manga was originally published in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine.
The story begins when a brilliant high school student named Light Yagami discovers a mysterious notebook called the Death Note.
The notebook belongs to a Shinigami, or death god, named Ryuk. Its most frightening ability is simple: anyone whose name is written inside it will die, provided the writer also has the person’s face in mind.
After discovering its power, Light decides to use the notebook to eliminate criminals and create what he believes will be a perfect world without crime. He begins calling himself Kira, and his actions quickly attract worldwide attention.
However, the mysterious deaths soon catch the attention of L, a highly intelligent detective known for solving some of the world’s most difficult cases.
L begins investigating Kira’s activities, determined to discover the identity of the person responsible.
What follows is an intense battle of intelligence between two exceptionally gifted individuals. Light tries to conceal his identity while continuing his mission, whereas L uses careful observation, logical deductions, and psychological tactics to uncover the truth.
The central question becomes: Can Light outsmart the detective, or will L discover who Kira really is?
Light Yagami vs. L: The Legendary Battle of Intelligence
One of the biggest reasons DEATH NOTE remains popular is the rivalry between its two central characters, Light Yagami and L.
Unlike many action-focused anime, the series relies heavily on psychological tension, strategy, manipulation, and unexpected twists.
Light Yagami – The Boy Who Wanted to Become God
Light Yagami is an exceptionally intelligent student who initially believes that the Death Note can help him create a better world.
He begins by targeting criminals, believing that removing them from society will make the world safer. However, as his power grows, so does his desire to control the world.
Light becomes increasingly determined to protect his identity and eliminate anyone who threatens his plans.
His transformation from a talented student into the mysterious criminal known as Kira is one of the most important parts of the story.
L – The World’s Greatest Detective
L is the mysterious detective assigned to investigate the Kira murders.
He is famous for solving difficult cases and possesses extraordinary analytical abilities. Unlike conventional detectives, L often uses unusual methods and carefully designed psychological tests to identify suspects.
His distinctive appearance, unusual sitting posture, love of sweets, and calm personality make him one of the most recognisable characters in anime.
L’s investigation becomes a personal intellectual contest with Light, as both characters attempt to predict and counter the other’s next move.
Their rivalry is the driving force behind the series and keeps viewers guessing about who will gain the upper hand.
Ryuk – The Shinigami Behind the Death Note
Ryuk is the Shinigami who drops the Death Note into the human world.
He is fascinated by human behaviour and becomes interested in watching what happens after Light discovers the notebook.
Although Ryuk provides Light with information about the Death Note’s rules, he is not a conventional ally. Much of his interest comes from curiosity and entertainment.
His presence introduces the supernatural element that makes the series different from an ordinary detective thriller.
Why DEATH NOTE Is Still Popular 20 Years After Its Anime Debut
The television anime began airing in October 2006 and ran for 37 episodes, concluding in June 2007.
Even after two decades, DEATH NOTE continues to attract viewers because its central themes remain easy to understand and its mysteries are engaging for both new and experienced anime fans.
Here are some of the reasons the series has maintained its popularity.
- An Unusual Story About Justice and Power
The story asks an interesting question: What would happen if an ordinary human gained the power to decide who lives and who dies?
Light initially believes that his actions are justified because he wants to eliminate crime. However, the story gradually explores the dangers of absolute power and the difference between justice and personal ambition.
This moral conflict gives the series more depth than a simple battle between a criminal and a detective.
- Clever Psychological Battles
Rather than depending entirely on physical fights, DEATH NOTE builds suspense through conversations, deductions, hidden intentions, and carefully planned strategies.
Light and L constantly attempt to understand each other’s thinking. Even small decisions can become important clues in their larger battle.
This approach makes the series especially appealing to viewers who enjoy mystery and detective stories.
- Memorable Characters
The anime features several memorable characters, including Light Yagami, L, Ryuk, Misa Amane, and Near.
Each character contributes something different to the story, whether through their intelligence, personal motivations, supernatural abilities, or connections to the investigation.
L’s distinctive personality and Light’s increasingly complicated character development are particularly important to the show’s lasting appeal.
- A Memorable Soundtrack and Atmosphere
The anime’s music plays an important role in building suspense and creating an unsettling atmosphere.
Its opening and ending themes also became closely associated with the series. The first opening theme, “the WORLD” by Nightmare, remains one of the best-known songs connected to the anime.
The combination of dramatic music, dark visuals, and intense storytelling helps make the series memorable.
How to Watch the DEATH NOTE Free Marathon
Viewers in Japan can access the special marathon through ABEMA’s Anime SPECIAL channel.
The first broadcast starts on November 5 at 3:00 PM JST, followed by a second broadcast beginning on November 6 at 9:30 AM JST.
Those who cannot watch the marathon live can take advantage of the one-week free catch-up period after the broadcast.
Viewing information:
- Platform: ABEMA
- Channel: Anime SPECIAL
- Episodes: All 37 episodes
- Free catch-up period: One week after the broadcast
Please note that ABEMA’s free viewing arrangements are subject to its own terms and regional restrictions. The announcement does not confirm worldwide availability.
The ABEMA DEATH NOTE marathon is a special opportunity for fans to revisit one of anime’s most memorable psychological thrillers.
By scheduling all 37 episodes around November 5, L’s in-story death anniversary, ABEMA has created a fitting tribute to the legendary detective and his unforgettable rivalry with Light Yagami.
The event is also particularly meaningful in 2026, the 20th anniversary year of the television anime’s debut.
Whether viewers are returning to the series to experience the battle between Light and L again or discovering the story for the first time, the free marathon and one-week catch-up period offer a convenient way to enjoy the complete anime.
For fans of mystery, suspense, supernatural stories, and intelligent character-driven drama, DEATH NOTE remains a series worth watching.
