Remow, a global distributor of Japanese entertainment content, has launched its new 24/7 free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channel, “It’s Anime,” on Samsung TV Plus in the United States and Canada. This strategic move aims to broaden the accessibility of premium Japanese anime to a wider audience without the need for a subscription.
A New Era for Anime Accessibility
The launch of “It’s Anime” signifies a significant step in Remow’s mission to make culturally authentic and high-quality Japanese anime readily available to global viewers. The channel operates as a 24/7 linear stream, providing both first-run series and beloved classics, delivered directly from Japan. This initiative caters to the surging demand for anime in North America, where the genre’s popularity has exploded in recent years, with theatrical hits and streaming figures demonstrating a robust and growing fanbase.
Akira Ishii, CEO of Remow, emphasized the channel’s purpose: “We developed It’s Anime to meet the expectations of today’s anime audience—passionate, engaged fans who want timely access to the latest series without barriers.” He further stated that the channel positions FAST as a premier destination for top-quality anime, hoping to expand the genre’s fanbase.
Content Lineup: A Mix of New and Classic Titles
“It’s Anime” is set to offer a diverse array of content, blending fresh premieres with buzzworthy titles and cherished franchises. Initial offerings and upcoming titles include:
- Your Forma
- My Deer Friend Nokotan
- Reborn!
- Umamusume: Cinderella Gray
- Tougen Anki
- Haigakura
- Kuroko’s Basketball
- Gag Manga Biyori GO
- Tonbo!
- Tasokare Hotel
Some of these titles, such as Your Forma, were already streaming exclusively on Samsung TV Plus via Remow’s licensing when they premiered in Japan. The channel promises content that viewers may not find elsewhere, making it a unique offering in the FAST landscape.
Remow’s Expanding Global Footprint
Remow, founded in 2021 and headquartered in Tokyo, is a Japanese cultural content entertainment company with a mission to produce and distribute Japanese anime content directly to global markets. Major Japanese content companies, including publisher Shueisha (a main shareholder), Toei, Toei Animation, Shochiku, Fuji TV, TBS, TV Asahi, and TV Tokyo, are involved with Remow. This collaboration allows Remow to manage and distribute overseas copyrights for a wide range of Japanese video products, including anime, movies, dramas, and comics.
Before the launch of “It’s Anime” in North America, Remow had already established a dedicated anime FAST channel across 18 Latin American countries. The company also operates a “24/7 SAMURAI-SHINOBI” FAST channel on Prime Video, which has significantly expanded its streaming presence. In just over two years, Remow has broadened its reach to 140 countries and over 40 streaming platforms. Furthermore, its “It’s Anime” YouTube channel has garnered nearly 100 million views in under a year, demonstrating strong digital engagement.
Remow’s strategy includes plans to roll out “It’s Anime” on additional platforms and in other territories throughout 2025 and 2026, further solidifying its global distribution network for Japanese media content.
The Rise of FAST Channels in the Anime Market
The launch of “It’s Anime” on Samsung TV Plus underscores a broader industry trend: the increasing prominence of Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) channels. As consumers seek cost-effective entertainment options, FAST services have seen significant growth. This model provides a valuable entry point for new viewers into the anime genre, complementing existing subscription-based services like Crunchyroll, which also launched its own FAST channel in the U.S. in late 2023.
Remow’s approach capitalizes on the massive appeal of anime by offering a curated selection of both contemporary and classic titles, aiming to convert linear TV audiences into dedicated anime fans. By making premium content readily available, “It’s Anime” seeks to cater to the “passionate, engaged fans who want timely access to the latest series without barriers,” a sentiment that resonates deeply within the anime community. This free access could also play a role in addressing issues like piracy by providing legitimate and accessible alternatives for viewers.
The timing of the North American launch coincided with the Anime Expo in Los Angeles, further highlighting the industry’s focus on the region. With the global anime market thriving, channels like “It’s Anime” are poised to meet the escalating demand and introduce Japanese animation to an even wider international audience.
