October 2005 - Sherman Oaks, CA � Toynami is very pleased to announce that it has acquired the license to create figurines, statues and collectibles based on the smash new anime sensation NARUTO, currently airing in Cartoon Network.

NARUTO, created by Masashi Kishimoto, made its debut as manga in the pages of SHONEN JUMP, and quickly became the most popular ninja manga in Japan. NARUTO tells the story of a young ninja-in-training who battles his mischievous nature while attending the Ninja Academy, determined to become the greatest ninja in the world and eventually lead his village.

"We're very excited to start bringing NARUTO's fantastic characters to life in three dimensions," said Toynami President George Sohn. "I've been watching the episodes, and I'm already addicted!"

Toynami plans to create resin figurines with diorama bases, collectible and limited-edition statues, and the company's trademark bookends. More details on the product line and pricing information will be released soon.