8 Lions Entertainment will work with TV Asahi Corporation on scaling the digital footprint for the anime franchise Ninja Hattori.
Well distributed across SVOD, AVOD, and FVOD, the franchise is now set for a major YouTube expansion with 8 Lions rolling out a network of localised channels. The initial rollout will include YouTube channels in Spanish, Arabic, Thai, and Vietnamese.
“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,” said Jiella Esmat, CEO of 8 Lions Entertainment. “We’re placing these communities, specifically YouTube, at the heart of our growth strategy, building a multi-format, multilingual, full-season fan ecosystem.”
8 Lions is expanding its anime initiative with plans to set up a Japanese base later this year, led by Lovely Chavez, VP for digital commercial partnerships at 8 Lions.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of Ninja Hattori’s next phase of growth and deeply appreciative of TV Asahi’s collaboration and desire to innovate,” Esmat added.
“Ninja Hattori is a cherished property that has been loved across generations in Japan,” said Maiko Sumida, head of animation sales and development at TV Asahi’s international business department. “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.”
