IShowSpeed Anime Series in Development at Big Shot Pictures, ‘One Piece’ Showrunner Matt Owens to Write

Why It Matters

The series illustrates how major studios are courting digital creators to tap their massive, engaged audiences, expanding anime’s market reach beyond traditional fans. It also positions iShowSpeed as a cross‑platform brand, potentially unlocking new revenue streams and content formats.

Key Takeaways

• iShowSpeed anime series greenlit at Big Shot Pictures.
• Matt Owens, former One Piece co‑showrunner, will write and produce.
• Harmony Korine joins as producer, adding indie film credibility.
• Big Shot Pictures secured first‑look deal with Sony Pictures.
• 52 million subscribers give the anime a massive built‑in audience.

Pulse Analysis

The partnership between iShowSpeed and Big Shot Pictures reflects a growing convergence of streaming talent and traditional animation studios. While iShowSpeed has built a massive following through high‑energy gaming and lifestyle content, the move into a scripted anime format marks his first foray into narrative storytelling. By aligning with a production house that already enjoys a first‑look agreement with Sony Pictures, the project gains immediate access to a global theatrical pipeline, potentially elevating the creator’s brand from digital platforms to mainstream entertainment venues.

Matt Owens’ involvement brings a pedigree that few creator‑driven projects can claim. Having co‑showrun the high‑budget adaptation of One Piece for Netflix, Owens is accustomed to translating beloved manga into serialized animation that satisfies both hardcore fans and broader audiences. His collaboration with Brian Robbins—who brings deep industry connections from his Paramount tenure—suggests the series will aim for production values on par with established anime franchises. Adding Harmony Korine as a producer injects an indie‑film sensibility, hinting at a willingness to experiment with tone and visual style beyond conventional anime tropes.

The initiative is part of a larger trend where influencers leverage their subscriber bases to secure intellectual property deals. Recent examples include MrBeast’s Naruto Shippuden merchandise tie‑in and other creators exploring comic‑book adaptations. For studios, these collaborations reduce market risk by attaching a ready‑made audience, while creators gain diversified revenue and brand longevity. As the anime market continues to expand globally, projects like iShowSpeed’s series could become a blueprint for monetizing digital fame through cross‑media storytelling.