Mexico lands Japan’s ‘Ninja Warrior’ via O4 Media, Martha Contreras & Bellon Entertainment

Ninja Warrior Germany

Japanese format Ninja Warrior (aka Sasuke) is entering Latin America following a deal involving Gary Pudney’s O4 Media.

The show has been optioned by Mexico’s Break The Format Media (BTF) and has been brokered by O4 Media, Martha Contreras and Bellon Entertainment USA.

Ninja Warrior is based on Sasuke, the Japanese format that first debuted on TBS in 1997, and sees contestants showcasing their strength, agility and mental fortitude as they navigate challenging obstacle courses. It has been remade in 25 countries and was revived in the UK in 2022 with ITV.

“We’ve been working with TBS in a variety of ways for a long time now,” said former Keshet International exec Pudney, who is MD and founder at O4 Media.

“The show’s universal appeal and exhilarating format make it a perfect fit for audiences in the region. We want Ninja Warrior to captivate viewers and become a loved fixture in Latin American homes.”

“Ninja Warrior programs from other parts of the world have been distributed in Latin American and proven the brand’s appeal,” said Greg Bellon of Bellon Entertainment. “I am certain that BTF’s production of new local versions will take Ninja Warrior to new heights and deliver a massive following.”