A Japanese gameshow that has run for more than three decades is finally heading abroad. NBCUniversal Formats has picked up distribution rights to Action Arena, the hit Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) show, and is now shopping it to international buyers for the first time in its plus-30-year history.
The news comes ahead of MIPCOM, where NBCUniversal Formats will feature Action Arena in its catalog. The show premiered in 1994 and aired more than 800 episodes and specials across a 17-year run, during which it was consistently one of the most-watched shows in its time slot.
How Action Arena Works
Action Arena puts contestants and celebrities through a series of physical and mental challenges designed to test their wits, teamwork and reflexes. The format mixes big, visual games with humor and teamwork elements that make it fun and instantly accessible.
The show has already built a strong record in Japan, where it became a cultural fixture across its long run. Now the question is whether that appeal travels.
The Format’s Track Record
Japanese format creators have brought several hits to the world in recent years. Ninja Warrior is one example, and LOL: Last One Laughing is another — the latter is currently performing well for Prime Video in multiple territories.
That track record suggests the market is ready for more. NBCUniversal Formats appears to be betting that Action Arena fits the pattern. Here’s how those successes compare:
- Ninja Warrior — a hit in multiple markets.
- LOL: Last One Laughing — currently performing well for Prime Video across several territories.
Both formats share traits with Action Arena: they are big, visual, and rooted in physical and mental challenges.
What NBCUniversal Is Showing
The acquisition follows NBCUniversal Formats picking up format rights to Korea’s Unboxing the Flavours, owned by DI Turn Co. Ltd and Phileas Productions S.L. The company is now taking both formats to MIPCOM, where buyers can see the catalog.
Why TBS Agreed To Export
Linfield Ng, NBCUniversal Formats’ VP, Format Sales and Production, said the company is excited about the opportunity. “Action Arena has an incredible legacy in Japan, and we’re excited to be working with TBS to introduce the format to the international market for the first time,” he said.
“Its mix of big, visual games, humour and teamwork makes it fun, instantly accessible and highly adaptable for audiences around the world.”
The quote captures the company’s pitch: this is a show that works because it is simple, loud and easy to follow. That combination is exactly why the format creators behind Ninja Warrior and LOL: Last One Laughing have found success elsewhere.
What Happens At MIPCOM
MIPCOM starts in a few days, and that is where the show will get its first real test on the international stage. Buyers will see the catalog and decide whether Action Arena belongs in their schedules.
The company’s track record suggests it has a chance. Whether the show translates to other markets remains to be seen.
See the video the story is built around at Deadline.
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