A press release from Viz Media announces that they have acquired from NTV some rights to the Death Note anime series, which is still airing in Japan. In particular, they have licensed the Download to Own (DTO) and Download to Rent (DTR) rights for the United States.

Viz plans to make the series available "through a number of online providers in order to reach the widest audience possible."

NEWS officially returned to active status at the Johnny's Countdown 2006-2007 event held at the end of last year. Former members Hiroki Uchi and Hironori Kusano were caught for underage drinking early last year, which led to the group's suspension in May. The two have been removed from the group and have returned to trainee status within Johnny's Jimusho.

On Wednesday, NEWS held a press conference regarding its return. The remaining 6 members commented that they would like to see Uchi and Kusano given another chance.

NEWS will be releasing a new single titled "Hoshi wo Mezashite," which will be the image song for the Japanese version of the animated film "Happy Feet." NEWS member Yuya Tegoshi will be playing the voice of the main character in the movie. A release date for the single has not yet been announced.

NEWS also announced its plans for a new tour, starting February 17 at the Yokohama Arena. The tour will include 19 performances at 8 venues, ending on April 15 at the Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center.