Will Smithis making a surprising new move, and it is not another blockbuster sequel. Through his production company Westbrook Inc., co-founded with Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith has teamed up with a brand-new U.S.-based anime studio called Studio Azuki. The goal? To help revolutionize the anime industry on a global scale.
This partnership places Westbrook at the forefront of a new wave in international animation, according to an exclusive byVariety.By backing a next-gen anime venture grounded in both Japanese artistry and digital innovation, Will Smith is matching with the future of entertainmentand helping make sure that anime is not just niche but mainstream, social, and global.
Westbrook’s Hollywood Power Meets Azuki’s Creative DNA
How Will Smith’s Team Is Fueling the Future of Anime
Studio Azuki is not a typical anime startup, it is a fusion of digital-native creativity and old-school Japanese production expertise. Born from a partnership between the NFT-inspired Azuki brand, Comisma Inc., and Xenotoon Inc., the studio aims to create high-end anime using new production models. Their collaborative approach blends traditional talent with international innovation.
Westbrook’s involvement brings major Hollywood credibility and global storytelling power to the table.CEO Ko Yada emphasized their goal to create content that “connects and inspires” across borders.With Azuki’s anime-first mindset and Westbrook’s global savvy, this venture could change how anime is developed and shared worldwide.
A New Era of Fan-Driven, Tech-Forward Anime
Studio Azuki’s Blueprint for the Next Generation of Anime
Azuki’s mission extends beyond cool visuals;it is about reimagining the anime ecosystem. Inspired by blockchain, social platforms, and direct fan engagement, Azuki is launching initiatives like the “Enter The Garden” series and working alongside giants like Dentsu and Anime.com. It is a part of their “Anime 2.0” vision that is supposedly interactive, creator-first, and global by design.
Backing them are two serious players. Comisma runs the manga platform Ganma! and the Qzil.la animation studio, while Xenotoon is known for short-form social content and indie collaborations. Together, they bring credibility and flexibility, ready to cater to everything from viral shorts to theatrical releases—powered by fan input and tech-driven production.
With Studio Azuki, Will Smith is not just dipping a toe into anime, he is jumping in with a bold, futuristic bet.
With Studio Azuki, Will Smith is not just dipping a toe into anime, he is jumping in with a bold, futuristic bet. This could be the momentanime officially levels up from fandom to global storytelling powerhouse, andWill Smithis clearly planning to be part of that transformation.
