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NBCUniversal and Japan’s U-Next have forged a long-term strategic partnership, bringing the international streaming brand Universal+ exclusively to the platform while pairing digital entertainment with Universal Studios Japan theme park experiences. According to reports from Variety, U-Next operates as Japan’s second-largest subscription video-on-demand service behind Netflix, boasting more than 5.2 million paid subscribers as of May 2026 based on data from GEM Partners.
Universal+ Launch and Streaming Expansion in Japan
The streaming collaboration introduces Universal+ to Japan starting in October 2026 as an exclusive offering on U-Next, according to Variety. Chris Taylor, managing director for Asia Pacific TV distribution and international networks at NBCUniversal, noted that the platform provides an ideal home for the studio’s portfolio. The service will house content from Universal Pictures, Focus Features, DreamWorks Animation, Illumination, Universal Studio Group, and Sky. Featured franchises include “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “Minions,” “Jurassic Park,” and “Fast & Furious.”
Beginning in the spring of 2027, U-Next subscribers will gain rolling exclusive access to major theatrical releases shortly after their cinema runs alongside first-run series from NBCUniversal. The 2026 theatrical calendar features high-profile event films such as Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” scheduled for a Sept. 11 opening in Japan, and Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day,” launching Oct. 1. Television offerings will include “The Five Star Weekend,” scripted series “Line of Fire” and “War,” and library titles like “Suits” and “Heroes,” as reported by Variety.
Connecting Streaming IP with Universal Studios Japan
Beyond digital screens, the second pillar of the agreement ties directly into physical entertainment at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) as the theme park marks its 25th anniversary in 2026. U-Next and USJ plan to jointly develop live music events, curate exclusive perks for U-Next subscribers, and produce dedicated video content highlighting the park. Tsutsumi Tenshin, president and representative director of U-Next Co., Ltd., emphasized that the collaboration aims to evolve the platform beyond traditional video viewing into an ecosystem where subscribers can connect real-world experiences with digital entertainment.
Did you know? U-Next combines movies, TV series, anime, live music, e-books, and sports—including the Premier League—into a single application, serving over 5.2 million paid subscribers in Japan, according to GEM Partners data cited by Variety.
Global Distribution Pathways for Japanese Content
The partnership also establishes new international pipelines for Japanese media. Under the third pillar, Japanese dramas, anime, films, and U-Next original productions will gain distribution exposure through NBCUniversal’s Peacock service in the United States and Universal+ in Latin America, with additional global markets planned over time. Taylor highlighted that this initiative aligns with the rising international popularity of Asian content, offering a dual benefit that pairs premium branded entertainment with traditional licensing frameworks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Universal+ launch on U-Next in Japan?
Universal+ is scheduled to roll out in Japan starting in October 2026 as an exclusive offering on U-Next, according to Variety.
How many subscribers does U-Next currently have?
U-Next surpassed 5.2 million paid subscribers as of May 2026, according to GEM Partners figures reported by Variety.
What theatrical films are included in NBCUniversal’s 2026 slate?
NBCUniversal’s 2026 slate includes Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” (opening Sept. 11 in Japan) and Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day” (opening Oct. 1), as reported by Variety.
Where can U-Next original productions be viewed internationally?
The partnership establishes pathways to distribute Japanese dramas, anime, and U-Next originals via Peacock in the U.S. and Universal+ in Latin America.
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