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Ninja Hattori Goes Global: New Digital Distribution Deal
17 Mar
Summary
- 8 Lions Entertainment secured a global deal for 'Ninja Hattori'.
- Distribution will focus on digital platforms outside Japan.
- The anime originated from a 1964 manga by Fujiko Fujio.
London-based 8 Lions Entertainment has secured a significant global licensing deal with Japan's TV Asahi Corp. for the enduring "Ninja Hattori" anime franchise. The agreement grants 8 Lions the rights to distribute the series digitally across SVOD, AVOD, and free VOD platforms in all territories outside of Japan.
The beloved franchise, which traces its origins to a 1964 manga by Fujiko Fujio, centers on a young ninja who moves to contemporary Tokyo. Its enduring appeal, marked by warmth and humor, has garnered a substantial following across Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
This partnership signifies a strategic shift in how Japanese anime IPs are distributed digitally. 8 Lions plans to launch localized YouTube channels featuring full seasons of "Ninja Hattori," initially in Spanish, Arabic, Thai, and Vietnamese. This approach aims to build direct connections with millions of fans, moving beyond the clips and promotional material typically offered on the platform.
Founded in 2024, 8 Lions specializes in scaling entertainment properties internationally. The company's efforts include establishing a Japan office later in 2026, led by VP Lovely Chavez, to enhance its on-the-ground operations. For TV Asahi, this deal marks a new chapter for a franchise that has been a part of Japanese culture for decades, with hopes of cultivating an even broader global fan base.
