The world of anime is about to get a whole lot more exciting for fans in the U.S. and Canada, as HIDIVE, the anime-focused streaming service from AMC Global Media, has just announced a massive content deal with Japan's Mainichi Broadcasting System (MBS). This multi-year exclusive output agreement is a significant milestone for HIDIVE, marking their largest content programming deal to date and further solidifying their position as a leading distributor of Japanese anime.
This partnership, which began in 2023, has already proven to be a success, with HIDIVE holding exclusive worldwide rights to distribute select MBS anime programming outside Asia. Now, the deal has been expanded, and HIDIVE will simulcast MBS' upcoming multi-year slate of series exclusively as they roll out over the coming seasons. This means that fans in the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the U.K., and Ireland will be able to enjoy the latest and greatest anime titles straight from Japan, as soon as they air.
The inaugural title of this new deal is 'Nia Liston: The Merciless Maiden', a fantasy action series adapted from a light novel. This show is set to debut stateside on August 21 during Anime NYC 2026 and will then join HIDIVE's Fall 2026 Simulcast Season lineup in October. The series is directed by Nakanishi Motoki, with Segi Haruta as assistant director, and features a talented cast, including Inoue Honoka as the protagonist, Nia Liston. The trailer for this highly anticipated title has already been unveiled, and it's sure to captivate anime enthusiasts worldwide.
John Ledford, president of HIDIVE, expressed his excitement about the deal, stating, 'Our historic anime partnership with MBS has been a resounding success, and we are thrilled to extend our global distribution alliance with a new exclusive output deal.' He further emphasized the significance of this agreement, highlighting HIDIVE's position as one of the world's most established and leading distributors of Japanese anime.
Shibata Mihoko, director of Mainichi Broadcasting System, Inc., also shared her enthusiasm, saying, 'Over the past three years, our partnership with AMC Global Media and HIDIVE has significantly expanded the global reach of MBS animation.' She added, 'We are thrilled to extend this successful alliance through our new multi-year output deal.'
The deal's impact extends beyond the entertainment industry. MBS, headquartered in Osaka, has a rich history dating back to 1951 with its radio broadcasts and 1959 terrestrial television broadcasting. The broadcaster has been a key player in the anime industry for over 50 years, co-producing and airing iconic series such as 'Attack on Titan,' 'Full Metal Alchemist,' and 'Jujutsu Kaisen.'
This exclusive output deal between HIDIVE and MBS is a game-changer for anime enthusiasts worldwide. It not only brings highly anticipated titles to a global audience but also strengthens the bond between the Japanese and international anime communities. As the deal unfolds, fans can expect to see more exciting anime series making their way to HIDIVE, further enriching the streaming service's content library and solidifying its position as a go-to destination for anime lovers.
