Fans of the popular anime series One Piece might get to see the third season sooner than expected.
Netflix's adaptation of One Piece recently dropped its second season – all 16 episodes were made available on Wednesday, March 10th.
The show is based on the popular Japanese manga by Eiichiro Oda. It follows the young pirate Monkey D. Luffy, played by Iñaki Godoy, who dreams of becoming the King of the Pirates.
To achieve his goal, he and his crew, the Straw Hats, navigate the dangerous sea route known as the Grand Line, which circles the entire world, searching for the legendary treasure called One Piece.
What’s the second season about?
In the second season, the crew faces even more dangerous foes and embarks on riskier adventures than before.
The official synopsis describes their new journey like this:
“Luffy and the Straw Hats set sail on the extraordinary Grand Line – a legendary stretch of sea where danger and wonders await at every turn. As they venture through this unpredictable world in search of the world's greatest treasure, they encounter bizarre islands and a slew of powerful new enemies.”
Perfect Ratings
The new episodes are doing great. On Rotten Tomatoes, they've scored a perfect 100 percent from critics and around 95 percent from viewers.
Third Season in the Works
The third season is officially confirmed. Netflix announced back in November that the production of new episodes is underway in Cape Town, South Africa.
Viewers can also look forward to new familiar faces in the cast. For example, Xolo Maridueña, known from Cobra Kai, will play Portgas D. Ace. Cole Escola from Big Mouth will appear as the eccentric assassin Bon Claye.
The creators also announced more new characters from Baroque Works. Actress Daisy Head, known from Shadow and Bone, will portray Miss Doublefinger, and actor Awdo Awdo will play Mr. 1.
When Will the Third Season Drop?
The exact release date hasn't been announced yet. There was about a two-and-a-half-year gap between the first season in August 2023 and the second one in March 2026.
This delay was mainly due to events in Hollywood, specifically the 2023 strike that affected the production of many series and movies.
The good news is the wait might be shorter this time. Since filming has been underway since last year, the new episodes could drop by the end of 2027 or early 2028. However, Netflix hasn't confirmed an official window yet.
