The SVOD service Starzplay has entered into a multi-year agreement with TV Tokyo to secure over 1,000 episodes of anime content.
Commenting on the development, Maaz Sheikh, co-founder and CEO Starzplay, said: “Our partnership with TV Tokyo to bring some of the most popular anime series establishes Starzplay as the true home in the region for anime. Over the last few years, the region has witnessed increased demand for anime, and we are bringing nothing but the best of content that anime fans in the region will love. For first-timers who want to know all about anime or for seasoned viewers who want to revisit the excitement this genre provides, we have them covered with our new programming that shows our commitment to provide compelling content that appeals to all.”.
Yukio Kawasaki, director, TV Tokyo Corporation, added: “One of our differentiating strengths is the extensive line-up of anime series that we distribute, several of them having gained cult status and contributed to the global popularity of the genre. Through our strong ties with Starzplay, we are delighted to offer our diverse suite of anime series for viewers in MENA, including our flagship franchise Naruto and upcoming culminating season of the popular series Fruits Basket: The Final. This will boost the popularity of anime in the region, especially among youth and families”.
TV TOKYO Corporation is a Tokyo-based broadcaster of general entertainment that operates a national FTA network known for its strength in programming for youth and young adults, animation in particular. It is a leading exporter of Japanese television content.
Meanwhile, Starzplay offers over 10,000 hours of premium content and SY is available in 20 countries across the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan.