Netflix Strengthens Its Anime Push With Expanded MAPPA Partnership

Netflix and standout Japanese animation studio MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man) have unveiled an expanded strategic partnership to co-create a slate of original anime projects for global audiences.

The companies already had a strong working relationship, and the new agreement deepens their commitment and positions both entities to collaborate more closely across development, production, worldwide distribution, and merchandising. Several MAPPA have already been introduced to international audiences by Netflix, including Ranma 1/2 and Kakegurui Twin.

Under the expanded partnership, Netflix will hold exclusive global streaming rights to a slate of new MAPPA-produced titles, which will debut simultaneously across all regions, including Japan.

Anime has become a key driver of engagement for Netflix, with the company reporting that more than half of its subscribers watch anime and that overall anime viewership on the platform has tripled over the past five years. In the company’s recent data dump, Netflix noted that Anime accounted for over 4% of the platform’s total viewing in the second half of 2025.

Multiple MAPPA projects are already in development under the terms of the new agreement, and Netflix will provide support beyond production, including global marketing and business expansion initiatives.

MAPPA President and CEO Manabu Otsuka said the partnership reflects the studio’s commitment to maintaining creative and business independence while expanding its global reach:

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.

Kaata Sakamoto, Netflix’s vice president of content for Japan, said the company views the collaboration as an opportunity to broaden the creative and commercial possibilities of anime on a global scale:

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.