Netflix ‘One Piece’ Producers Say Season 2Are ‘Ready,’ Episodes Could Air 12-18 Months After Strikes End

Following the successful debut of Netflix’s live-action adaptation of “One Piece,” the production team reveals that scripts for a potential Season 2 are already in place. Marty Adelstein, CEO of Tomorrow Studios, in collaboration with manga creator Eiichiro Oda and publisher Shueisha, mentioned that they are prepared to move forward with the next season once production can resume.

However, the commencement of production for a second season hinges on the resolution of the SAG-AFTRA strike against the AMPTP. When given the green light to proceed, Tomorrow Studios president Becky Clements optimistically estimates that Season 2 could launch within a year. She notes that efficient progress might be achievable in as little as a year and, at most, 18 months.

The current series, overseen by showrunners Matt Owens and Steven Maeda, transports viewers to a fantastical realm where pirates and marines vie for dominance over the Blue Sea. The story revolves around young Monkey D. Luffy (played by Iñaki Godoy), who aspires to become the next pirate king despite his inability to swim due to the effects of the “Gum Gum” Devil Fruit he consumed as a child. This fruit bestowed a remarkably elastic body but condemned him to avoid the sea.

Throughout Luffy’s adventures in the East Blue region to pursue the legendary “one piece” treasure of Pirate King Gold Roger (portrayed by Michael Dorman), he secures his vessel, the Going Merry. He assembles a diverse crew of sailors named the Straw Hat Pirates, named after his iconic straw hat.

While Netflix has celebrated the success of Season 1, achieving the top spot on the English-language TV series Top 10 list within four days of release, an official announcement regarding Season 2 has yet to be made. Despite the positive indicators, Adelstein and Clements express confidence in the series’ future.

The team acknowledges that Netflix typically keeps such decisions confidential until after the launch. Clements stated, “But with Netflix’s support of the title, we expected it to be number one… we have been told that we have exceeded expectations, which is also fantastic.”

Netflix has not provided any comments regarding the status of a potential “One Piece” Season 2.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for Tomorrow Studios, which faced challenges with the live-action adaptation of “Cowboy Bebop.” Following its 2021 premiere, the series was canceled after less than a month. The team is more optimistic about the future of “One Piece.”

Adelstein anticipates discussions with Netflix regarding the next season’s format and episode count. He states, “There seems to be a big impetus to keep this going and to develop a long-term strategy. So we’re just waiting for that.”

To secure a second season, Adelstein emphasizes the importance of expanding the audience beyond existing manga or anime fans. He notes that attracting viewers unfamiliar with the source material will be crucial for the series’ continued success, highlighting the broad appeal of “One Piece.”

“It’s been broadening out… the key is to bring in the non-fans and people who aren’t aware of the IP because the show stands on its own, and you get people to watch it, and people love it,” Adelstein affirms.