Netflix and Sony Pictures Strike Landmark Global Streaming Deal
In addition to new releases, the agreement includes the licensing of select titles from Sony’s extensive film and television library.
RMN Stars Business Desk
New Delhi | January 16, 2026
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — In a significant move for the entertainment industry, Netflix and Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) have announced a multi-year global Pay-1 licensing agreement that will make Netflix the exclusive streaming home for Sony’s feature films worldwide.
The deal, announced on January 15, 2026, represents an industry-first for Pay-1 reach, ensuring that Sony’s theatrical releases will head to Netflix following their initial theatrical and home entertainment windows. While Netflix already held Pay-1 rights for Sony films in select regions—including the U.S., Germany, and Southeast Asia—this new arrangement expands that partnership to a global scale.
A Phased Global Rollout
The global expansion is set to begin later this year as rights in individual territories become available. Full global availability is expected by early 2029. In addition to new releases, the agreement includes the licensing of select titles from Sony’s extensive film and television library.
“Our members all over the world love movies and giving them exclusive access to Sony’s much loved films adds incredible value to their subscriptions,” said Lauren Smith, Vice President of Licensing and Programming Strategy at Netflix.
High-Profile Titles on the Horizon
The partnership will bring several highly anticipated projects to the streaming platform. Key upcoming titles confirmed for the deal include:
- The Legend of Zelda: A live-action adaptation of the iconic Nintendo franchise.
- Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse: The concluding chapter of the acclaimed animated trilogy.
- The Nightingale: An adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s novel starring Dakota and Elle Fanning.
- The Beatles Biopics: A quartet of films directed by Academy Award-winner Sam Mendes.
- Buds: A new production from Sony Pictures Animation.
Strengthening Independent Distribution
Paul Littmann, EVP of Global Distribution for Sony Pictures Television, noted that the deal reinforces Sony’s position as an independent studio. He stated that the partnership “further underscores the strength of our independence and unique ability to create meaningful opportunities that benefit our creative stakeholders, consumers, and world-class partners”.
This agreement comes as Netflix continues to solidify its position as a global leader in streaming, currently boasting over 300 million paid memberships across more than 190 countries. For Sony, the deal provides a guaranteed global platform for its diverse production slate, which includes labels such as Columbia Pictures, TriStar Pictures, and Sony Pictures Classics.
