Kids

8 Lions Entertainment has entered into a global licensing agreement with Japanese broadcaster TV Asahi Corporation for the iconic anime franchise "Ninja Hattori". The partnership aims to launch a digital distribution strategy that will bring the long-running series to SVOD, AVOD, and FVOD platforms worldwide, excluding Japan.

A key component of this agreement is the launch of a network of localized Ninja Hattori YouTube channels in Spanish, Arabic, Thai, and Vietnamese. This strategy represents a shift in how Japanese IP is managed, utilizing YouTube’s scale to drive audience engagement and monetization through full-season distribution rather than just promotional clips.

Jiella Esmat, CEO of 8 Lions Entertainment, stated: “Japanese anime libraries previously locked behind paywalls have an opportunity to build a direct connection with millions of fans via AVOD platforms that have enjoyed little more than promotional content to date. We’re placing these communities, specifically YouTube, at the heart of our growth strategy, building a multi-format, multilingual, full-season fan ecosystem.”

Maiko Sumida, Head of Animation Sales & Development, TV Asahi International Business Department, added: “'Ninja Hattori' is a cherished property that has been loved across generations in Japan. We are greatly encouraged to see this long-running IP reach audiences around the world in a new way through 8 Lions’ innovative, digital and multilingual approach. We believe this partnership will further elevate the value of the franchise and help cultivate an even broader global fan base.”

Originally created by Fujiko Fujio A, "Ninja Hattori" has been a staple of Japanese pop culture since 1964. To support this and future Japanese IP projects, 8 Lions Entertainment has announced plans to establish a local base in Japan later this year.