Netflix Locks in Game-Changing Anime Deal With Studio MAPPA
Anime keeps tightening its grip on the streaming world, and it isn’t slowing down anytime soon. While platforms like Crunchyroll and HIDIVE stay focused almost entirely on anime, the bigger streamers clearly see the value in expanding their catalogs.
Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and others have all joined the party, but Netflix just made a move that could seriously shift the landscape.
This week, Netflix officially confirmed a major partnership with Studio MAPPA, one of the most influential anime studios working today.
Under this new deal, Netflix will serve as the exclusive home for original MAPPA-produced anime titles going forward. That’s a big deal considering MAPPA’s recent track record and the studio’s growing global fanbase.
MAPPA has been behind some of the most talked-about anime of the last several years, including Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Hell’s Paradise, and Attack on Titan’s Final Season. The announcement doesn’t mean existing series are suddenly becoming Netflix-only, but it does open the door for future seasons and brand-new projects to land exclusively on the platform.
MAPPA President Manabu Otsuka addressed the scope of the collaboration and what it means for the studio moving forward, saying,
“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.”
From Netflix’s side, the excitement is just as clear. Kaata Skaamoto, Vice President of Content in Japan, shared how the streamer sees MAPPA fitting into its long-term anime strategy, stating,
“MAPPA is a remarkable studio that has continuously taken on bold challenges and achieved unprecedented forms of expression. 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.”
This partnership isn’t starting from scratch either. Netflix and MAPPA have already teamed up on exclusive releases like Kakegurui Twin and Ranma 1/2, proving the two companies can work well together.
With Jujutsu Kaisen and Hell’s Paradise both returning in January, attention is also turning toward Dorohedoro, which is set to make its comeback later this year. Since the first season was a Netflix exclusive, it wouldn’t be shocking to see season two follow the same path.
Netflix clearly wants a stronger foothold in the anime space, and partnering with MAPPA is a smart way to do it. If this collaboration delivers on its promise, anime fans could be looking at a steady stream of high-quality, creator-driven projects landing exclusively on Netflix.