Amazon Freevee has announced the launch of a new free, ad-supported channel dedicated to the beloved Japanese anime series “Naruto.” This initiative comes as a result of a recent partnership between Amazon Freevee and Viz Media, the local rights holder for the series. The channel will offer fans a continuous, linear viewing experience alongside on-demand options, enhancing accessibility to the iconic show.
This development follows similar moves by Amazon Freevee, which recently introduced FAST channels for other popular anime series, including “Hunter x Hunter” and “Sailor Moon Classic.”
Originally created by renowned mangaka Masashi Kishimoto in 1999 as a manga series, “Naruto” centers on a young ninja named Naruto Uzumaki. Known for his mischievous behavior and unwavering determination, Naruto aspires to become the greatest ninja in the world. The series first aired on Tokyo Network from 2002 to 2007 and encompasses approximately 220 episodes.
According to Google analytics, “Naruto” is the most searched anime series of all time. The manga has sold over 250 million copies worldwide and holds the top spot as the No. 1 anime in 92 countries. Its cultural impact is significant, influencing various media and popular culture, including musical references by artists like Cardi B and the viral “Naruto Run” meme. The narrative continues through the sequel series “Boruto: Naruto Next Generations,” which follows Naruto’s son.
JP Villanueva, Senior Director of Digital Distribution at Viz Media, commented on the new channel, saying, “With the launch of a dedicated linear channel and VOD offerings, fans can now experience the iconic adventures of Naruto Uzumaki around the clock. This addition not only enriches Freevee’s anime library but also provides an exciting new way for fans to engage with one of the most celebrated anime franchises.”
The new channel’s debut aligns with Amazon Freevee’s expansion of other Viz Media properties, including “Accel World,” “Bakuman,” “Blue Dragon,” “Buso Renkin,” “Captain Tsubasa,” “Death Note,” “Infini-T Force,” “Inuyasha,” “Inuyasha Final Act,” “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,” “K,” “K: Seven Stories,” “MEGALOBOX,” “Ranma ½,” “Reborn,” “Sailor Moon Crystal,” “Terraformars,” “Vampire Knight,” and “Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon.”