What episode is "The Nine-Tails Unleashed" in Naruto Shippuden?
"The Nine-Tails Unleashed" is episode 40 of Naruto Shippuden.
Spoiler-Safe Summary
safe readDuring a tense encounter at a bridge, Naruto's emotions cause his chakra to leak, resulting in a dramatic transformation that surprises Yamato, who recalls warnings from Jiraiya about the effects of Naruto's power. Meanwhile, Orochimaru taunts Naruto, adding to the conflict's intensity.
Full Plot Summary
spoilersYamato signals Naruto, Sakura and Sai to appear on the bridge. On seeing Naruto, Orochimaru begins mocking him and compares him to Sasuke, which causes the Nine-Tails's chakra to leak from an enraged Naruto's body and ascends him to a Three-Tailed form. Meanwhile, Yamato remembers Jiraiya speaking of the appearance of number of tails on Naruto during their training, and had specifically warned of Naruto's Four-Tailed transformation.
Episode FAQ
4 quick answersIs "The Nine-Tails Unleashed" canon or filler?
"The Nine-Tails Unleashed" is listed as canon in the current AnimeAnchor guide.
What story arc is "The Nine-Tails Unleashed" part of?
"The Nine-Tails Unleashed" is part of the Sasuke and Itachi Arc.
Can I read this without spoilers?
Yes. Start with the spoiler-safe summary, then reveal the full plot only when you want the complete episode breakdown.
Series Cast
18Browse the main cast connected to this episode guide.
Kakashi Hatake main 
Naruto Uzumaki main 
Sakura Haruno main 
Sasuke Uchiha main 
Asuma Sarutobi supporting 
Boruto Uzumaki supporting 
Gaara supporting 
Hinata Hyuga supporting 
Konan supporting 
Konohamaru Sarutobi supporting Might Guy supporting Mitsuki supporting 
Sai supporting Sarada Uchiha supporting 
Shikamaru Nara supporting 
Yamato supporting 
Danzo Shimura antagonist 
Deidara antagonist Related Movies
6Franchise movie releases are kept separate from the TV episode spine.
Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow 2004 
Naruto the Movie 2: Legend of the Stone of Gelel 2005 
Naruto the Movie 3: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom 2006 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie 2007 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Bonds 2008 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire 2009