Netflix extends DreamWorks Animation deal to include Universal properties

Netflix has struck an expanded relationship with Comcast-NBCUniversal-owned DreamWorks Animation in a move that will initially see animated series Fast & Furious debut on the subscription video-on-demand service.

Following Comcast-NBCUniversal’s acquisition of DreamWorks Animation in 2016, which pitched Comcast head-to-head with Disney in the kids and family programming market, Netflix said it had expanded its relationship with the studio to include a first look at DreamWorks Animation animated series based on Universal film properties, like the Fast & Furious franchise.

Some 14 other DreamWorks Animation shows have debuted on Netflix to date, including DreamWorks Trollhunters from Guillermo del Toro, DreamWorks Spirit Riding Free and All Hail King Julien, with an additional four series slated to debut on the streaming service this year.

“We are thrilled to take our fantastic partnership with DreamWorks Animation to the next level with new opportunities from the vast library of Universal Pictures.The Fast & Furious franchise is a global phenomenon beloved by audiences of all ages, and we can’t wait to get started on the new animated series that will capture the action, heart, humour and global appeal of the feature films. We are thrilled to take our fantastic partnership with DreamWorks Animation to the next level with new opportunities from the vast library of Universal Pictures,” said Melissa Cobb, VP of kids and family at Netflix.

“We are excited to extend and expand our successful relationship with Netflix by not only delivering more high-quality DreamWorks programming, but connecting fans of Universal films with fascinating new stories. Our new home at Universal marks an exciting new chapter for storytelling at our studio, and Fast & Furious is only the beginning,” said Margie Cohn, president of DreamWorks Animation Television.