On December 9, 2020, Crunchyroll dropped the news that they will be acquired by Sony’s Funimation Global Group. Sony also shared the news in a press release on the same day. The purchase price, as reported by Sony, is 1.175 billion US dollars, which will be “paid in cash at closing.”
3 million subscribers and counting
In Crunchyroll’s announcement, they shared some large numbers that greatly reflected the overall success they have received as an anime streaming service. Joanne Waage, general manager of Crunchyroll, reported that they have over 3 million subscribers and 90 million users. The service currently operates in over 200 countries and territories.
With Sony’s acquisition of Crunchyroll, broadening the overall distribution of content seems to be a large goal. Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, Tony Vinciquerra, stated that they are proud to be bringing Crunchyroll into the Sony fold.
Through Funimation and our terrific partners at Aniplex and Sony Music Entertainment Japan, we have a deep understanding of this global artform and are well-positioned to deliver outstanding content to audiences around the world.
Tony Vinciquerra (Sony press release)
Crunchyroll acquisition not a surprise
Sony’s acquisition is certainly not a surprise. In August 2020, Variety reported that WarnerMedia was looking to “offload Crunchyroll, its anime subscription-streaming service — with an asking price of at least $1 billion.”
Sony also has a history of acquiring anime distribution companies and anime production companies. Some of these companies include A-1 Pictures, CloverWorks, and Wakanim.
What do you think of Sony’s latest anime business move? Share your thoughts with us in the comments or on Twitter.
