Netflix and MAPPA Formalize Strategic Partnership to Expand Global Anime Production

Netflix has entered into a strategic partnership with Japanese animation studio MAPPA, reinforcing its long-term commitment to anime as a core global content pillar. Announced on January 21, 2026, the agreement deepens collaboration between the two companies across multiple stages of anime production, with Netflix set to exclusively stream a slate of new, original MAPPA-produced titles worldwide.

Under the partnership, Netflix and MAPPA will work together on projects designed from the outset for international audiences, spanning story development, production planning, and downstream business areas such as merchandising. Multiple new anime projects are already in development, with global day-and-date premieres planned on Netflix.

Founded in 2011, MAPPA has rapidly established itself as one of Japan's leading animation studios despite its relatively short history. The studio is known for high-profile titles including Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Yuri!!! on Ice, and Jigokuraku (Hell's Paradise). In recent years, MAPPA has drawn attention for pursuing a more studio-led business model, most notably with Chainsaw Man, where it played a central role not only in production but also in IP development and merchandising.

The partnership reflects Netflix's growing reliance on anime as a key driver of viewer engagement. According to the company, more than half of its global members now watch anime, and overall anime viewership on the platform has tripled over the past five years. By securing exclusive global rights to new MAPPA titles, Netflix aims to strengthen its anime lineup while offering creators a direct path to international audiences.

MAPPA President and CEO Manabu Ootsuka described the expanded partnership as an extension of the studio's philosophy of maintaining independence both creatively and commercially. He emphasized the importance of animation studios taking the lead across the full value chain, from understanding global audience demand to project development and business expansion, positioning the collaboration with Netflix as a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.

From Netflix's perspective, the alliance aligns with its broader strategy of working closely with top-tier Japanese studios rather than operating solely as a distribution platform. Kaata Sakamoto, Vice President of Content for Netflix Japan, highlighted MAPPA's willingness to take creative risks and pursue new forms of expression, noting that Netflix's global scale and appetite for bold content make it a natural partner for such ambitions.

Netflix and MAPPA have collaborated previously on titles such as Kakegurui Twin, and Netflix has also brought other MAPPA works to international audiences. The new agreement formalizes and expands that relationship, signaling a shift toward deeper, studio-centered partnerships.

As global demand for Japanese animation continues to rise, the Netflix–MAPPA partnership underscores a broader industry trend: animation studios seeking greater control over production and IP, and global platforms positioning themselves as long-term partners in the creative process rather than simple licensors.

Source: Animation Business Journal, Nikkei