Funimation Acquires Crunchyroll with A Deal Worth Almost Up to $1.2 Billion
Funimation has acquired Crunchyroll, which means that two major anime streaming services will be united under the flag of Sony Pictures Entertainment.
The deal has been announced back in December 2020, and it’s worth almost $1.2 billion, this shows how determined Sony was to acquire Crunchyroll. They have also made a statement, saying this deal would create a chance to “broaden distribution” and “expand fan-centric offerings for consumers.”
We don’t know what Sony is planning to do with these two separate anime streaming services yet but don’t be surprised if those two get merged into one with more variety of shows to watch on.
“We are very excited to welcome Crunchyroll to the Sony Group,” Sony CEO Kenichiro Yoshida said, “Anime is a rapidly growing medium that enthralls and inspires emotion among audiences around the globe. The alignment of Crunchyroll and Funimation will enable us to get even closer to the creators and fans who are at the heart of the anime community. We look forward to delivering even more outstanding entertainment that fills the world with emotion through anime.”
Eurogamer has mentioned that there are plans of Crunchyroll being offered as a part of a more expensive premium PlayStation Plus offering, though we don’t have any details coming from Sony on this matter.
