Japan – Netflix has announced a strategic partnership with acclaimed animation studio MAPPA Co., Ltd. (MAPPA) to co-develop a slate of original anime titles that will premiere exclusively on Netflix worldwide.
The collaboration will see the two companies working together on projects with a global focus, covering areas from story development to merchandising. Netflix will stream the resulting MAPPA-produced anime titles exclusively to its members around the world.
MAPPA, known for hits such as Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen, has a reputation for pushing the boundaries of traditional anime production. The studio emphasises creative freedom and strategic innovation, taking a hands-on approach to projects.
Anime has become a key part of Netflix’s programming, with the platform reporting that more than half of its members watch anime and viewership has tripled over the past five years. Under the expanded partnership, MAPPA’s upcoming titles will premiere simultaneously worldwide, giving fans across the globe access to new stories at the same time.
Kaata Sakamoto, vice president of content for Japan at Netflix, said, “MAPPA is a remarkable studio that has continuously taken on bold challenges and achieved unprecedented forms of expression.”
Sakamoto added, “At Netflix, we also value the passion and dedication of creators. By combining MAPPA’s unique approach to anime production with Netflix’s global reach—and the courage to take risks, which is essential to creating compelling content—we hope to further expand the possibilities of anime. We are fully committed to delivering new works and excitement to fans around the world.”
Netflix has previously streamed MAPPA productions such as Ranma ½ and Kakegurui Twin. The new deal involves multiple projects currently in planning and production.
Through this partnership, Netflix and MAPPA aim to bring more original Japanese anime to global audiences, expand opportunities for creative collaboration, and explore new approaches in anime storytelling and production.
Manabu Otsuka, president and CEO of MAPPA, commented, “We have worked with Netflix on various projects in the past, but this expanded partnership is based on MAPPA’s core belief in being an independent studio—both creatively and in business. Japanese animation studios must proactively lead every stage, from understanding global audience needs and developing projects to reaching viewers and expanding related businesses. MAPPA is committed to deepening our collaboration with Netflix, aiming for a long-term, win-win partnership.”
