Netflix is going big in Japan after striking a deal with national broadcaster NHK for a wealth of dramas and landing its first variety show.
The streamer, which has been keen to expand its Japanese footprint, will launch six NHK series next month including Taiga drama Strategist KANBE; the morning serial Mampuku; Drama 10’s Descending Stories: A Life in Rakugo, The Science Club and Tokyo Salad Bowl, and premium drama My Family.
A total of 20 NHK dramas will drop on Netflix by 2027. The deal includes annual Taiga dramas, which Deadline spotlighted in its Global Breakout series in 2024.
Netflix has long partnered with major Japanese broadcasters to bring drama to audiences in Japan and globally but the addition of NHK titles marks an expansion of that commitment. Big Netflix Japan hits include Alice in Borderland and Last Samurai Standing.
The streamer is also making moves in the Japanese unscripted space. Netflix has committed to its first Japanese variety show, buying Nippon TV’s Monday Late Show. Hosted by Shingo Murakami and Matsuko Deluxe, the hit show has been airing for 15 years. It is known for focusing on trending topics and local stories, spotlighting personalities and communities from across Japan.