One piece season 3 confirmed: xolo maridueña joins the crew

Published on 10/03/2026 16:54 in entertainment • Nika Shakhnazarova

Fans of the hit live-action adaptation of One Piece have long awaited news of the show's future. The wait is finally over: Netflix officially announced a third season is in the works, and it’s bringing some major casting news.

<P>new characters and familiar faces set to join the adventure</p>

new characters and familiar faces set to join the adventure

The confirmation dropped on August 9, 2025, coinciding with One Piece Day. This announcement wasn't just to stoke excitement for the upcoming season; it also unveiled a significant piece of news: Xolo Maridueña will portray the beloved character Portgas D. Ace.

This casting has been a long-requested wish among fans, fueled by Maridueña’s striking resemblance to fellow actor Iñaki. His previous role in Cobra Kai as Miguel Diaz, a show that enjoyed considerable success on Netflix, undoubtedly played a role in the decision. Cole Escola will step into the role of Bon Clay, Awdo Awdo as Mr. 1, and Daisy Head as Miss Doublefinger. Notably, several characters from the second season will be promoted to main roles, including Mikaela Hoover as Chopper, Joe Manganiello as Mr. 0, Lera Abova as Miss All Sunday, and Sendhil Ramamurthy as Nefertari Cobra. And, if you're lucky, Taz Skylar will reprise his role.

Production on the third season officially kicked off on November 24, 2025, significantly accelerating the timeline. The anticipated release window is late 2027 or 2028, a welcome change for eager viewers.

The series' creators appear to have learned from the past, aiming for a faster turnaround to capitalize on the actors' momentum. The commitment to expanding the ensemble cast, combined with the established fanbase, positions One Piece for continued success.

The show’s success underscores Netflix’s continued investment in high-quality adaptations, a strategy that has yielded significant returns. This isn't merely a continuation of a series; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Eiichiro Oda's epic story and the power of a well-executed live-action adaptation.

The crew is back, and the adventure continues.