Retailers will soon be able to stock their shelves with new Ultraman toys as the outcome of a new licensing deal between Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America (BNTCA), Tsuburaya Productions, and Tsuburaya Fields Media & Pictures Entertainment.
Bandai Namco was awarded the master toy license for the Ultraman intellectual property (IP), which will result in an upcoming line consisting of action figures, role play items, playsets, and plush available for retailers in North America. The line will also include products inspired by the Ultraman film slated to hit Netflix in 2024.
Created in 1966 and famous for defending mankind from a litany of would-be invaders, Ultraman is one of Japan’s more recognizable characters, having appeared in both live-action and anime series, as well as comic books, video games, and other media.
“More than 50 years after the character’s inception, Ultraman is building an extensive fan base in North America which supports our global marketing initiative,” says Kei Minamitani, Executive Manager for Tsuburaya. “When it came time to decide who the master licensee would be, BNTCA was the most logical choice. The care and quality that goes into each of their products, plus their extensive presence within the world of anime, makes them a true leader within the industry.”
Teppei Onoki, Chief Operating Officer of Bandai Namco, adds, “Ultraman originally started off as a tokusatsu [or] live action property and has been added into the world of anime. Here at BNTCA we are true fans and have been following the IP’s journey. Both tokusatsu and anime are some of the things we do best.”
In accordance with the deal, Bandai Namco will work to expand its Ultraman line with Los Angeles-based Tsuburaya Fields Media & Pictures Entertainment. The line is scheduled to release next summer across North America, with select categories launching in territories across South America and Europe.
