Sony Pictures Television has announced that it will be bringing all of its anime streaming services under one banner. Going forward the Funimation name will cover all of the Sony anime properties globally.
Speaking with Variety, Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins said, “Anime is a growing area of importance for us at Sony Pictures Television. By combining these businesses, we immediately increase our global reach and expertise in [subscription] VOD, theatrical, home video, merchandising, events and more.”
“It just became clear when we looked at the global view of anime at Sony, these things should really be together,” said Funimation general manager Colin Decker, who joined Funimation from rival Crunchyroll this past May. “Aniplex is one of the most respected names in anime and strategically this positions us to deliver more value to fans and creators.”
The deal will combine Funimation with the French and Australian anime services owned by Aniplex. Funimation will then acquire and distribute anime in the U.S., via Wakanim in France, and Madman Anime Group in Australia.
The first title under the new deal will be Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia based on the Fate/Grand Order mobile game.
