Ever since the video dropped showing Iñaki Godoy (Monkey D. Luffy), Mackenyu (Zoro), Emily Rudd (Nami), Jacob Romero (Usopp), and Taz Skylar (Sanji) reuniting in Cape Town, South Africa, the excitement for the second season of the live-action One Piece series has been growing like wildfire. The series, brought to life by Showrunners Joe Tracz & Matt Owens, Netflix, Tomorrow Studios, and publisher Shueisha, is based on Eiichiro Oda’s beloved manga.
Eiichiro Oda’s Update
While Netflix’s Geeked Week is expected to bring more news about the show’s return next month, Eiichiro Oda isn’t making us wait that long for an update. In a beautifully written note, the franchise creator reassures fans that the team behind the series is taking their time to create a vision that meets his approval. He expresses his appreciation for the collaborative working relationship he has with them.
Near the end of the update, Oda reveals some exciting news: from August 21-23, we will be getting casting announcements each day. He also teases that we might learn more about Vivi, Miss All Sunday, and what they are planning for Chopper.
Production and Casting Updates
In July, Tomorrow Studios President Becky Clements shared some important updates regarding production and casting for the second season. At the time of the interview, they were in their third week of production, with filming set to continue “into December.” Clements emphasized that this season is very VFX-heavy, so fans will need to be patient as it will take some time to complete.
Regarding recent casting rounds, Clements confirmed the addition of characters like Smoker, Brogy, Mr. 5, Mr. 9, and Mr. 3. She noted that these characters should give fans a good idea of what chapters the season will cover. Clements praised the collaboration between showrunners Matt Owens and Joe Tracz, highlighting their alignment and Oda’s continued involvement.
Future Seasons and Jamie Lee Curtis Update
Clements confirmed that multiple seasons are still planned, with enough source material for at least six seasons. She stated, “We have those plans. Matt Owens has it in his head, it’s just a matter of our partners wanting to keep moving forward, but we are creatively prepared.”
Regarding Jamie Lee Curtis and the role of Doctor Kureha, Clements revealed that Curtis’ busy schedule and the production timeline for Season 2 couldn’t align. “She loves the show but has too many commitments. However, we have found an amazing person for the role.”
Additional casting announcements are still to come.
One Piece Netflix Trivia
General Information
- Release Date: The live-action adaptation of One Piece was released on Netflix in August 2023.
- Production Timeline: The series was first announced during the franchise’s 20th anniversary in 2017. Writing began in 2019, and production started in 2022, during the 25th anniversary. Shooting for the second season began in Summer 2024, with a likely 2025 release.
Cast and Characters
- Main Cast:
- Iñaki Godoy as Monkey D. Luffy
- Mackenyu as Roronoa Zoro
- Emily Rudd as Nami
- Jacob Romero Gibson as Usopp
- Taz Skylar as Sanji
- Additional Cast for Season 2:
- Brendan Sean Murray as Brogy
- Callum Kerr as Smoker
- Camrus Johnson as Mr. 5
- Clive Russell as Crocus
- Daniel Lasker as Mr. 9
- David Dastmalchian as Mr. 3
- Jazzara Jaslyn as Miss Valentine
- Julia Rehwald as Tashigi
- Rob Colletti as Wapol
- Ty Keogh as Dalton
- Werner Coetser as Dorry
Production Insights
- VFX-Heavy Season: The second season is expected to be very VFX-heavy, requiring significant time for post-production.
- Creative Collaboration: Showrunners Matt Owens and Joe Tracz have been praised for their alignment and collaboration with Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, who has been very involved in the production process.
Fun Facts
- Character Design: The original Mr. 7, who was only alluded to in the manga and anime, was given a detailed character design by Oda for the live-action adaptation.
- Actor Backgrounds:
- Iñaki Godoy (Luffy) starred as Bruno in the Mexican thriller series “Who Killed Sara?”
- Emily Rudd (Nami) appeared in Netflix’s “Fear Street” film trilogy as Cindy Berman.
- McKinley Belcher III (Arlong) portrayed Agent Trevor Evans in “Ozark.”
- Peter Gadiot (Shanks) appeared in the Netflix horror film “Velvet Buzzsaw.”
- Amber Hossack (Moodie) portrayed Kate Wiley in the short film “Mind over Matter.”
Future Seasons
- Multiple Seasons Planned: The production team has plans for multiple seasons, with enough source material for at least six seasons. The creative team is prepared and eager to continue the series, pending the support of their partners.
Jamie Lee Curtis Update
- Doctor Kureha Casting: Jamie Lee Curtis was initially considered for the role of Doctor Kureha, but scheduling conflicts prevented her from joining the cast. However, the production team has found another amazing actor for the role.
Conclusion
The anticipation for the second season of the One Piece live-action series is palpable. With exciting casting news on the horizon and the reassurance from Eiichiro Oda, fans have much to look forward to. The collaborative efforts of the production team and the involvement of Oda promise a season that will stay true to the beloved manga.
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