To celebrate its 10th anniversary in Japan, Netflix has announced three new Japanese original series spanning drama, comedy, and anime, underlining its continued commitment to investing in locally produced content for both domestic and international audiences.
Leading the new lineup is “Straight to Hell,” a live-action drama based on the life of Japan’s most famous fortune teller, Kazuko Hosoki. The series will delve into her larger-than-life personality and explore her rise to national fame. Netflix describes it as a “bold portrayal of an outspoken woman” who became a cultural icon by delivering her predictions on national television with unapologetic intensity.
On the comedy front, Netflix will debut “Did Someone Happen to Mention Me?” starring acclaimed actor Koji Yakusho. The series centers on a renowned Japanese stage actor who returns from starring in Shakespeare’s “King Lear” at London’s Globe Theatre, only to find that no one in Japan remembers him. The show is described by Netflix as a sharp, character-driven satire that pokes fun at fame, cultural memory, and the ephemerality of celebrity.
Rounding out the slate is “Steel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,” the latest anime adaptation in the long-running and globally popular JoJo franchise. Based on Part 7 of Hirohiko Araki’s manga, the story follows a cross-country horse race across the United States in 1890, with supernatural stakes and a $50 million prize. “Steel Ball Run” is one of the most anticipated additions for anime fans worldwide and reflects Netflix’s ongoing strategy to double down on the genre as a key pillar of international growth.
These series represent Netflix Japan’s effort to balance bold new narratives with global franchise appeal. As Netflix’s Japanese subscriber base continues to grow, the streaming giant is further cementing Japan as one of its top content production hubs in Asia. According to previous company disclosures, Japan remains one of the most engaged territories for Netflix globally, particularly in anime and local-language originals. The newly announced series are expected to launch in 2026.
By investing in original Japanese storytelling with international potential, Netflix is reinforcing its position in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape — not just as a distributor, but as a key co-creator of Japanese premium content.
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