Azuki Partners with Westbrook to Revolutionize Anime
Deal News | Jul 10, 2025 | Raptor Capital Management LP
Westbrook Inc., owned by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, has formed a strategic partnership with Studio Azuki, a new U.S.-based animation studio. Studio Azuki is a joint venture between the NFT-born brand Azuki and Japanese companies Comisma Inc. and Xenotoon Inc. The collaboration aims to develop original anime intellectual properties and adaptations through innovative production models leveraging technology, fan engagement, and cross-cultural storytelling. With this partnership, Westbrook seeks to blend its Hollywood influence with Azuki's anime expertise, exploring blockchain's role in anime creation and distribution. Studio Azuki plans to merge Japan's anime traditions with Western appeal, especially in the U.S., to redefine how anime is produced, funded, and distributed globally.
Sectors
- Entertainment
- Technology
- Animation
Geography
- United States – Westbrook Inc. is based in the U.S. and the partnership aims to appeal to the growing anime market in the country.
- Japan – Japanese companies Comisma Inc. and Xenotoon Inc. are involved in the joint venture to bring authentic anime production expertise.
Industry
- Entertainment – The partnership involves media companies aiming to produce and distribute new anime content.
- Technology – The collaboration involves leveraging blockchain technology for anime creation and distribution.
- Animation – The focus is on developing anime content through innovative production models.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Westbrook Inc. | Partner | Company | A media company owned by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. |
| Studio Azuki | Target Company | Company | A newly launched animation studio in the U.S. focusing on anime. |
| Azuki | Partner | Company | An NFT-born brand that evolved into an animation studio. |
| Comisma Inc. | Partner | Company | A Japanese company bringing anime production expertise. |
| Xenotoon Inc. | Partner | Company | A Japanese company contributing to anime production and distribution. |
| Raptor Capital Management LP | PE Firm | Company | A private equity firm backing the initiative. |