Key Highlights
- Cobra Kai star Xolo Maridueña will portray Luffy’s older brother, Ace, in season 3 of One Piece.
- The announcement was made following Cole Escola playing Bon Clay.
- One Piece has already been renewed for a third season and is set to return to production later this year.
- Xolo Maridueña previously starred as Miguel Diaz in all six seasons of Cobra Kai.
New Addition to One Piece Live-Action Series
Netflix has announced that Xolo Maridueña, a star from the hit karate drama Cobra Kai, will portray Luffy’s older brother, Ace, in season 3 of the live-action adaptation of One Piece. This news comes after the confirmation that Cole Escola would play Bon Clay. Season 2 of One Piece is set to debut on March 10, 2026, and Maridueña’s involvement in the series marks his return to Netflix following his role as karate sensation Miguel Diaz across all six seasons of Cobra Kai.
Ace: The Hotheaded Yet Kindhearted Character
Ace is Luffy’s older brother who first revealed himself during the Straw Hats’ time in the Arabasta Kingdom. He embarked on a journey before Luffy and went on to make a formidable name for himself, eventually joining a legendary pirate crew. As one of the most important characters in the series, Ace serves as a catalyst for future events and is integral to the One Piece narrative.
Production Details and Maridueña’s Background
The live-action series has already secured its third season ahead of season 2’s debut on March 10, 2026. Production for this upcoming season is set to resume in Cape Town, South Africa. Maridueña brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously anchored both the series and film with his charisma and charm as Blue Beetle under James Gunn’s vision.
Maridueña’s resemblance to Iñaki Godoy‘s portrayal of Monkey D.
Luffy further enhances the dynamic between the characters, making him an ideal choice for portraying Ace. His background in both television series and film roles suggests that he will bring a multifaceted performance to this significant role.
Industry Context and Future Implications
The addition of Xolo Maridueña to One Piece’s cast is part of Netflix’s ongoing commitment to expanding its original content library. The live-action adaptation has garnered significant attention since its debut, with fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of Luffy’s journey and the introduction of new characters like Ace.
Maridueña’s involvement in both Cobra Kai and One Piece demonstrates his versatility as an actor and his growing prominence within the entertainment industry. This move also highlights Netflix’s strategy of reusing talent from one series to another, potentially saving costs while maintaining a consistent cast for its live-action adaptations.
In conclusion, Xolo Maridueña’s portrayal of Ace in season 3 of One Piece is a significant development that will undoubtedly impact the upcoming narrative. Fans can look forward to seeing how this new addition will shape the series and contribute to the rich storytelling that has made One Piece a global phenomenon.
