Key Takeaways:
* The One Piece live-action series, a significant hit for Netflix in 2023, is scheduling a second season, expected to premiere in 2025.
* Actor Mario Cortijo inadvertently revealed that Xolo Maridueña would play the role of Ace, Luffy's elder brother.
* Fans are ecstatic at the possibility of Maridueña playing Ace, given his solid performance in Netflix's Cobra Kai.
* The potential casting of Xolo Maridueña as Ace has spiked the anticipation for One Piece's second season, despite him not confirming the role officially.
The Second Season of One Piece Live-Action Series: Unveiling New Additions
The announcement of the follow-up to the stupendously successful first season of Netflix's live-action adaptation of ‘One Piece' has got fans over the moon. Audiences across the globe are keenly awaiting the release in 2025 with bated breath. One of the reasons for the heightened anticipation is the expected appearance of Ace, Luffy's elder brother, in the upcoming season. The casting reveal of this crucial character has been the source of significant buzz among fans.
An Accidental Reveal?
Mario Cortijo, during an interview, unintentionally slipped out that Xolo Maridueña would be stepping into the shoes of Ace. Although he quickly attempted to retract his statement, the news had already made its way among the fans. Despite the premature revealing of this information, adding big names like Xolo Maridueña to the cast does not come as a surprise considering the success of the first season.
What Maridueña Could Bring to the Character of Ace
Maridueña's potential casting as Ace is creating a stir among fans who are hoping his portrayal of the character will be just as successful as Iñaki Godoy's representation of Monkey D. Luffy in the first season. The actor has already proven his caliber in Netflix's Cobra Kai series, stirring hope among fans that he will do justice to Ace's role.
In the anime adaptation of One Piece, the brotherly bond between Luffy and Ace is central to the series. If Maridueña is indeed cast as Ace, he will likely face Godoy in future episodes. Interestingly, both actors share a friendly rapport in real life, which could add depth to their on-screen chemistry.
Rumors, Confirmation, or Denial?
On the Lone Lobos podcast, Maridueña addressed these rumors but did not offer outright confirmation. He stated that while such a role would certainly be a dream come true, he would have to go through the same audition process as any other actor unless the producers deemed him a perfect fit. Fans, however, have interpreted this statement as an attempt to distract from the leak. If this rumor turns out false, fans may experience significant disappointment, displaying their heartfelt investment in Maridueña's potential casting as Ace.
Ace's Role in Season Two
Maintaining a significant presence in One Piece, Ace's role in the Alabasta Saga, which might be covered in the second season, is relatively small. Therefore, even if Maridueña is officially announced as Ace, fans may only catch a glimpse of him in the new season. Yet, his potential addition to the cast undoubtedly intensifies the expectations for season 2.
With the ever-lasting curiosity among fans regarding the casting of this critical character, the anticipation for the second season of ‘One Piece' is at peak levels. As one waits for an official confirmation or denial, the excitement continues to stir. So, whether Ace will sport the face of Maridueña or not, the launch of the second season of ‘One Piece's' live-action is a thrilling event to watch out for.
In the meanwhile, One Piece fans can quench their thirst by enjoying the manga on Viz Media or stream the ongoing anime on Crunchyroll.
