GKids to Bring Studio Ghibli Classics to UK and Ireland Theaters, Including Imax Showings

GKids has taken a major step into the European market, acquiring the distribution rights to Studio Ghibli's entire 23-film library for the United Kingdom and Ireland. The deal covers theatrical, home video, TV, and digital rights, while Goodfellas retains streaming rights, which are currently licensed to Netflix in the region, according to Deadline.

DeadlineGKids Acquires Studio Ghibli Library Rights for UK and Ireland, Plans Imax Releases

"GKids has acquired the UK and Ireland distribution rights to Studio Ghibli's 23-film library, including classics like Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Princess Mononoke."

The acquisition will kick off with an Imax release of 'Kiki's Delivery Service' on August 21, as reported by Variety. That rollout marks the first time many of these beloved animated films will be shown in the large-format premium screens in the region.

VarietyGkids Acquires U.K. and Ireland Distribution Rights to Studio Ghibli's 23-Film Library

Variety noted that the catalog spans major titles such as 'Spirited Away,' 'The Boy and the Heron,' 'Princess Mononoke,' and 'My Neighbor Totoro.' GKids also plans additional Imax releases for other entries in the library, bringing a fresh theatrical experience to audiences who may have only seen the films on home video or streaming.

The move extends GKids' footprint beyond North America, where the distributor has long been the home for Studio Ghibli's theatrical releases. By securing UK and Ireland rights, GKids ensures that the films will be handled by a team deeply familiar with the brand, rather than being parceled out to multiple local distributors.

"Gkids has acquired U.K. and Ireland distribution rights to Studio Ghibli's 23-film library, covering theatrical, home video, TV, and digital rights."

With Imax screenings of 'Kiki's Delivery Service' leading the charge, the partnership gives fans in the UK and Ireland a reason to return to theaters for a studio whose hand-drawn artistry has rarely been seen on such large screens. The deal also solidifies GKids' role as the global steward of Ghibli's theatrical legacy outside of Japan.