Key Highlights
- Cole Escola cast as fan favorite character Mister 2 in One Piece season 3.
- Escola is a Tony Award-winning Broadway star known for their role in “Oh, Mary!”
- Mister 2 will be portrayed as non-binary to reflect Escola’s identity.
- Season 2 of Netflix’s One Piece live-action adaptation premieres on March 10, 2026.
One Piece Season 3: Broadway Star Cole Escola Cast as Non-Binary Mister 2
In a move that aligns with the show’s commitment to diverse casting choices, Netflix’s live-action adaptation of Eiichiro Oda’s global phenomenon One Piece has tapped award-winning Broadway star Cole Escola for the role of fan favorite character Mister 2 in season 3. The casting decision is particularly apt given that Mister 2 is known for his theatricality, a trait that Escola brings to the role with their extensive stage experience.
Theatre Meets Animation: A Perfect Fit
Escola, best known for their award-winning play “Oh, Mary!” in which they wrote and starred as Mary Todd Lincoln, is no stranger to embodying complex characters. This background makes Escola an ideal choice for Mister 2, a theatrical assassin who often employs elaborate disguises and performances to carry out his missions. “It’s incredibly exciting to bring such a beloved character from the manga and anime into live-action,” stated Escola in a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly.
Non-Binary Representation: A Personal Commitment
A notable aspect of this casting decision is that Mister 2 will be portrayed as non-binary, reflecting Escola’s own identity. This move underscores Netflix’s commitment to inclusive storytelling and representation within the One Piece universe. “I’m thrilled to bring this character to life in a way that truly honors both the source material and my own authentic self,” said Escola.
Season 2: A Critical Success
The casting of Escola comes at an exciting time for fans, as season 2 of One Piece on Netflix is slated to premiere on March 10, 2026. The show has been praised for its faithful adaptation of the source material and its ability to capture the essence of Oda’s world. Season 2 has already received positive feedback from actors like David Dastmalchian, who played Mr. 3 in season 1 and commented on how well the show “nails” its villains.
Looking Ahead: The Future of One Piece on Netflix
While no specific release date has been announced for season 3, the casting of Escola signals a promising future for the series. Fans are eagerly anticipating what new adventures await Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they continue their journey in search of the One Piece.
The integration of Broadway talent into the live-action adaptation of One Piece not only enriches the show with theatrical flair but also demonstrates Netflix’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering high-quality content to its global audience. As the curtain rises on season 3, it promises to be a thrilling chapter in both the world of anime and live-action entertainment.
