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Japanese entertainment giant Toho Co., Ltd. is all set to acquire 100% equity in North American animation distributor GKIDS, Inc.
While financial details of the deal were not disclosed, the acquisition will establish GKIDS as a wholly-owned subsidiary under Toho International, Toho’s U.S.-based arm. 
GKIDS will continue operations under the leadership of its founder and CEO, Eric Beckman, alongside President Dave Jesteadt.
Beckman and Jesteadt expressed their excitement about the new partnership, stating, “GKIDS will continue operating with the same team and mission, now with the backing of Toho, the iconic home of Godzilla and Akira Kurosawa’s legacy. This partnership will allow us to expand our reach and champion animation as a cinematic art form even further.”
The acquisition aligns with Toho’s long-term growth strategy under its “TOHO VISION 2032 TOHO Group Management Corporate Strategy.”
This initiative aims to expand Toho’s presence in international markets by connecting Japanese productions with global audiences.
Toho President and CEO Hiro Matsuoka expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “GKIDS has built a unique position in the U.S. market, which dovetails perfectly with Toho’s strengths. This partnership will accelerate Toho’s animation priorities, market expansion, and support for IP creation.”
GKIDS has an extensive track record of distributing acclaimed films, including Weathering With You by Makoto Shinkai and Promare by Studio TRIGGER.
The two companies have previously collaborated to distribute projects such as Spirited Away: Live on Stage and other works from Studio Ghibli.
Toho’s acquisition of GKIDS follows several collaborative successes between Toho and GKIDS.
In December 2023, The Boy and the Heron—distributed by GKIDS—became the highest-grossing Studio Ghibli film in North America.
Around the same time, Toho’s Godzilla Minus One set a record as the highest-grossing Japanese live-action film in the U.S. Both films were celebrated at the 96th Academy Awards, with each taking home Oscars.
In recent years, Toho has acquired animation studio Science SARU and made equity investments in Los Angeles-based production company Fifth Season.
Nomura Securities Co., Ltd. served as the exclusive financial advisor to Toho in the acquisition, with legal advisory services provided by Nishimura & Asahi.
ACF Investment Bank acted as GKIDS’ financial advisor, supported by Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP as legal counsel.
Toho commands over 45% of Japan’s domestic film distribution market and has collaborated with iconic filmmakers such as Akira Kurosawa and Makoto Shinkai. The company has also partnered with Studio Ghibli and other major IP creators to bring Japanese cinema to global audiences.
Source: GKIDS Official website
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