Naruto is licensed by ShoPro/Viz

Naruto, the immensely popular ninja anime series that has dominated the fansub circuit for the last 2 years, has today been licensed for a North American (and Latin America) release by ShoPro Entertainment.

“We are ecstatic about Naruto! It is a great privilege to be bringing such an outstanding property to the Americas,” said John Easum, Senior Vice President of ShoPro Entertainment, who recently merged with Inuyasha TV and Shonen Jump distributors VIZ. The deal includes the TV, home video, and merchandising rights for the franchise. Read the full press release by clicking here.

The Naruto franchise has been the subject of massive interest around the world, with license bidding wars said to be spiralling out of control. What this means for any prospective UK release is sketchy at best- VIZ, who are going to become a part of ShoPro Entertainment, are yet to even show an interest in releasing their anime (Inuyasha, SaiKano) in the UK. More news on this as we hear it.