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The casting for Netflix’s One Piece live-action Season 2 has been met with controversy, with certain sections of the fanbase expressing dissatisfaction over the choices for key characters.
Criticism arose when it was revealed that Sendhil Ramamurthy and Charitra Chandran, both Indian-origin actors, would portray King Cobra, ruler of Alabasta, a kingdom inspired by ancient Egypt, and his daughter Nefertari Vivi.
This led to accusations of “Arab erasure” from some fans online.
Similarly, Lera Abova’s casting as Miss All Sunday also faced backlash due to her Russian heritage, with fans questioning the accuracy of her portrayal.
However, the latest message from One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda, which came out on Nov 26, 2024, may quell these concerns.
After visiting the production set in Cape Town, South Africa, Oda shared his impressions of the cast and crew, offering his full endorsement of the casting decisions.
In his statement, Oda revealed that he was personally involved in selecting cast using photos and videos from Japan. But after meeting both the returning cast members from Season 1 and the new additions for Season 2, Oda was resolute in his approval.
“When I met them in person, I was absolutely certain: ‘These people were the perfect choice!!!’” Oda wrote, emphasizing his confidence in the actors and their ability to bring the characters to life.
Oda also commended the production team for their meticulous attention to detail and the palpable passion they bring to the project. “The atmosphere on set is amazing!” he noted, expressing excitement for what lies ahead. “Without a doubt, Season 2 will surpass Season 1 and become a masterpiece!!”
Check out the image shared by the official X account below.
This message is particularly significant as it highlights Oda’s direct involvement in the live-action adaptation, underscoring his role in casting decisions.
The reassurance from the series’ creator, combined with his firsthand praise for the actors and production, is expected to ease concerns among fans about the portrayal of crucial characters from the second season of OPLA.
One Piece Live-Action Season 2 will air in 2025, and will cover arcs from Loguetown to Drum Island.
Cast members who have joined season 2 till now include:
- David Dastmalchian as Mr. 3
- Jazzara Jaslyn as Miss Valentine
- Camrus Johnson as Mr. 5
- Daniel Lasker as Mr. 9
- Clive Russel as Crocus
- Werner Coetser as Dorry
- Brendan Murray as Brogy
- Callum Kerr as Smoker
- Julia Rehwald as Tashigi
- Rob Colletti as Wapol
- Ty Keogh as Dalton
- Katey Sagal as Dr. Kureha
- Mark Harelik as Dr. Hiriluk
- Sendhil Ramamurthy as Nefertari Cobra
- Charithra Chandran as Nefertari Vivi
- Joe Manganiello as Crocodile
- Lera Abova as Miss All Sunday (Nico Robin)
Additionally, Joe Tracz has also joined the team as the new writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner alongside Matt Owens.
Season 1 of One Piece live-action adaptation premiered in Netflix on Aug 31, 2023.
Netflix is exclusively streaming the series, produced by Tomorrow Studios, a partnership between producer Marty Adelstein and ITV Studios.
The first season of the series was the most watched title on Netflix in the second half of 2023.
Source: Official X account
