A new chapter begins for Netflix’s One Piece — but this time, it’s without one of the show’s key architects. As post-production continues on the anticipated second season, co-showrunner and longtime fan Matt Owens has announced his departure from the live-action adaptation of Eiichiro Oda’s beloved manga.
Per Instagram, Owens said that “the last six years working on the live-action One Piece have been a life-changing journey, and a dream come true. It’s also been a LOT. So I’m stepping off the Going Merry to take a break and focus on myself and my mental health. Thank you so much to [creator Eiichiro] Oda, Shueisha, Tomorrow Studios, Netflix, and the entire cast and crew for your trust, partnership, and hard work.”
Production for season two wrapped in early 2025, with Joe Tracz stepping in as co-showrunner. Tracz, who was brought on before filming began, will now take the reins on his own. Owens, despite his exit, played a significant role throughout the second season’s production and even co-wrote at least one episode. His creative fingerprint remains embedded in the show’s DNA, particularly as it prepares to introduce major arcs from the manga, including Loguetown and Drum Island.
New characters from the Baroque Works criminal syndicate will make their live-action debut, with cast additions including Joe Manganiello (Magic Mike) as Mr. 0, with Daniel Lasker (Raised by Wolves) as Mr. 9, Camrus Johnson (Batwoman) as Mr. 5, and Jazzara Jaslyn (Lioness) as Miss Valentine. David Dastmalchian (The Suicide Squad) portrays Mr. 3, Clive Russell (Game of Thrones) takes on the role of Crocus, and Werner Coetser (7de Laan) and Brendan Sean Murray (Warrior) play the giant warriors Dorry and Brogy. Callum Kerr (Virgin River) appears as Smoker, while Julia Rehwald (the Fear Street series) brings Tashigi to life.
Additional cast members include Rob Colletti (The Many Saints of Newark) as Wapol, Ty Keogh (24 Hours to Live) as Dalton, and Lera Abova (Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin) as Nico Robin. Katey Sagal (Sons of Anarchy) will play Dr. Kureha, with Mark Harelik (42) as Dr. Hiriluk. Sendhil Ramamurthy (Heroes) takes on the role of Cobra Nefertari, with Charitha Chandran (Bridgerton) as Vivi Nefertari, Rigo Sanchez (Outer Banks) as Dragon, and Yonda Thomas (Red Ink) as Igaram. James Hiroyuki Liao (Ghost of Tsushima), Sophia Anne Caruso (The School for Good and Evil), Mark Penwill (Marie), and Anton David Jeftha (Dominion) round out the lineup in the supporting roles of Ipponmatsu, Miss Goldenweek, Chess, and K.M., respectively.
While fans may be disappointed to see Owens step away, his departure doesn’t spell the end of his connection to the franchise. In past interviews, he spoke about having a six-year plan for the series. His Instagram note even hinted at a possible return once he’s had time to recover. Given the show’s momentum and long-term potential, it’s not far-fetched to imagine Owens rejoining the crew for a future season.
Owens’ departure is a reminder of the human effort behind these massive productions. Six years is a long time to dedicate to a single project, especially one as logistically and emotionally demanding as One Piece on Netflix. Still, his groundwork and passion have built a foundation strong enough for others to carry forward. And if the sea calls him back, there will likely be a place for him aboard.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Caleb from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
Ting Wei
