On January 15, 2026, Netflix and Sony Pictures Entertainment announced a major multi-year licensing agreement. This deal makes Netflix the exclusive first streaming home for Sony’s feature films worldwide after their theatrical and home entertainment windows.
This Pay-1 arrangement marks an industry first for its full global scope. It expands on the existing U.S. partnership between the two companies, which began in 2021.
Key Details of the Agreement
The deal covers new Sony theatrical releases. Netflix will gain access to these titles following their cinema runs and initial video-on-demand availability.
- Rollout begins later in 2026 in select territories.
- Full global coverage is expected by early 2029, as current regional rights expire.
- Netflix also secures rights to certain library films and television titles from Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Sources report the agreement’s value exceeds $7 billion, making it one of the largest Pay-1 deals on record. This figure surpasses the previous U.S.-focused pact, valued at $2.5 billion.
Background on the Partnership
Netflix already holds Pay-1 rights to Sony films in the U.S., Germany, and parts of Southeast Asia. Recent titles like It Ends With Us, Anyone But You, and Venom: The Last Dance have performed well on the platform in those markets.
The new agreement builds on this success. Sony benefits from a reliable outlet for its releases amid shifts in how audiences watch movies.
Upcoming Titles Heading to Netflix
Several anticipated Sony films will arrive on Netflix under this deal, including:
- Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse — the next chapter in the animated Spider-Verse series.
- The live-action adaptation of Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda.
- The Nightingale — starring Dakota and Elle Fanning in an adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s novel.
- Sony Pictures Animation’s Buds.
- Academy Award-winner Sam Mendes’ four films focused on The Beatles.
These projects highlight Sony’s mix of franchises, adaptations, and original stories.
Lauren Smith, Netflix’s VP of licensing and programming strategy, noted that the company’s members enjoy movies and this deal provides exclusive access to popular Sony titles globally.
Paul Littmann, executive VP of global distribution at Sony Pictures Television, described the partnership as valuable and said the new agreement strengthens it further.
This move comes as Netflix pursues other major content strategies in a competitive landscape. The deal ensures a consistent supply of high-profile films for subscribers around the world.
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