Netflix does not make small bets on anime. It studies the numbers, tracks global taste, and then acts. The streaming platform deepened its commitment to the medium through an expanded deal with MAPPA, Co., Ltd. (MAPPA), one of Japan’s most talked-about animation studios. The Netflix and MAPPA partnership signals ambition. The companies want to rethink how anime gets made, financed, and delivered worldwide.
From Licensing to Co-Creation
Netflix announced a long-term strategic partnership with MAPPA, the studio behind hit series “Chainsaw Man” and “Jujutsu Kaisen.” This time, the relationship goes beyond distribution. The two companies will co-develop and produce new anime titles with a global lens. Netflix will exclusively stream a slate of original MAPPA projects worldwide.
The scope stretches from story development to merchandising. MAPPA has long sought greater independence in how it builds and controls its IP. The studio took a hands-on approach to “Chainsaw Man,” guiding development and merchandise strategy. With “Jujutsu Kaisen,” MAPPA helped push Japanese anime deeper into the global mainstream.
Now, it wants to lead every step of the process.
“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,” Manabu Otsuka, president and CEO of MAPPA, said in a statement.
“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,” he continued.
Netflix brings reach and scale. It reports that its “anime viewership has tripled over the past five years.” Under the new agreement, MAPPA’s upcoming titles will premiere worldwide, simultaneously and exclusively.
Netflix has already streamed MAPPA titles such as “Ranma 1/2” and “Kakegurui Twin.” Now, new projects sit in development under the expanded partnership.
Why This Partnership Matters
The Netflix and MAPPA partnership is a calculated alliance between a global streaming leader and one of anime’s most in-demand studios. Together, they will co-produce original titles that Netflix will stream exclusively worldwide. That structure gives both companies exactly what they want.
MAPPA gains direct funding and stronger creative control by moving beyond the traditional production committee system, allowing the studio to develop projects from the ground up without divided authority. At the same time, Netflix secures premium, globally minded anime with exclusive streaming rights, strengthening its catalog and sharpening its edge in an increasingly competitive market where anime drives major engagement.
The move also positions both companies to build a world-class animation studio model that blends Japanese craft with global distribution muscle. The result could reshape how international audiences discover anime and how creators finance it.
Do you think this partnership will change how anime gets made and released worldwide?
