Netflix and animation studio MAPPA have entered a new strategic partnership to co-produce and globally distribute anime projects, the companies announced on January 21. This move deepens a relationship that began in 2020 and aims to take future collaborations beyond streaming, extending to story development and merchandising with an international focus.
MAPPA, known for anime like Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Dororo, Zombie Land Saga, as well as the latter half of Attack on Titan, has earned a reputation for pushing creative and production boundaries. The studio notably self-funded Chainsaw Man, bypassing the traditional production committee system. MAPPA’s rapid growth has also drawn scrutiny around working conditions, an issue the studio has publicly acknowledged. In a 2025 interview, MAPPA vice president and producer Hiroya Hasegawa said the company and the broader anime industry are rethinking work styles, mentorship, and work-life balance as production scales globally.
Netflix, meanwhile, has already exclusively distributed several MAPPA productions, including Kakegurui Twin, the 2024 reboot of Ranma ½, and the 2025 adaptation of The Rose of Versailles.
Under this expanded partnership, the companies plan to co-produce multiple anime titles already in progress. These will be distributed exclusively in over 190 countries and territories via Netflix.
Comments from MAPPA and Netflix
Manabu Otsuka, MAPPA President:
“This strengthened partnership reflects our long-held vision of MAPPA as a self-reliant studio on both creative and business fronts. Japanese animation studios should lead with global perspective—from planning and development to international reach and related business ventures. We’re committed to working closely with Netflix to build a long-term, win-win collaboration.”
Kaata Sakamoto, VP of Content at Netflix:
“MAPPA has continuously taken on bold creative challenges, and we want to support that spirit. By combining MAPPA’s distinctive production and Netflix’s global reach, we hope to expand anime’s possibilities. We’re excited to deliver new stories, fresh expressions, and impactful experiences to audiences worldwide.”
No titles or release windows were announced at this stage, but the companies emphasized that several projects are already underway.
Source: AV Watch
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