Tanaka serves as house steward and senior staff member of the Phantomhive household, having previously been butler under Vincent and Rachel Phantomhive. He is an elderly man with gray hair, a mustache, and a monocle, typically depicted wearing a black suit and white gloves while holding a cup of tea. He often appears in a smaller, less detailed form, reverting to this state after expending energy, but assumes full height during moments requiring action or focus. His personality reflects unwavering loyalty to the Phantomhive family and a perceptive, dignified composure. He acts as a dependable adviser to the head of the household, prioritizing their well-being while sternly admonishing any perceived weakness that could compromise their position. Tanaka remains calm under pressure and demonstrates exceptional combat proficiency, utilizing martial arts like Baritsu and wielding a katana with sufficient skill to slice bullets. During the 1885 attack on Phantomhive Manor, Tanaka attempted to warn Ciel Phantomhive to escape but was stabbed from behind by an unseen assailant, sustaining severe injuries. He was the sole survivor among the original staff and received treatment at the Royal London Hospital. When Ciel and Sebastian Michaelis visited him there, he expressed astonishment at Ciel's survival and entrusted Sebastian with the pocket watch traditionally passed down between Phantomhive butlers. Following his recovery, Tanaka resumed limited duties at the estate due to his injuries. Throughout various incidents, Tanaka intermittently assumes the role of butler when Sebastian is unavailable. For instance, during the Phantomhive Manor Murders, he steps in as butler after Sebastian's apparent death, efficiently managing household affairs and directing other servants. He physically intervenes to protect Ciel, flipping Karl Woodley onto his back to prevent an attack. He later returns the head butler position to Sebastian upon his return, emphasizing that a Phantomhive butler should not die before the master. In the OVA "His Butler, Performer," Tanaka participates in a Funtom Corporation charity production of Hamlet, portraying the ghost of Hamlet's father. His performance contributes to the play's chaotic yet ultimately successful outcome. Tanaka accompanies the household during missions, such as the Emerald Witch arc in Germany, assisting with logistics and remaining alongside other servants during confrontations with hostile villagers. He maintains his role as a stabilizing presence within the estate, often observed quietly sipping tea but prepared to act when necessary. Documentation indicates he keeps a journal detailing events before and after the manor attack, as requested by Vincent Phantomhive. His long-standing service implies a deep, generational commitment to the family.