Xolo Maridueña Joins Netflix’s One Piece Season 3 as Portgas D. Ace
Netflix has announced that Xolo Maridueña, best known for his roles in the series “Cobra Kai” and the film “Blue Beetle,” will portray Portgas D. Ace in the third season of its live-action adaptation of “One Piece.” The casting was confirmed through Netflix’s Tudum platform.
Netflix called Ace “one of the most beloved characters in the ‘One Piece’ universe.”
Portgas D. Ace, a central figure in Eiichiro Oda’s iconic manga and anime, is known as the older adopted brother of Monkey D. Luffy, the main protagonist. In the story, Ace possesses the powers of the Flame-Flame Fruit, granting him control over fire and the ability to transform into it.
His appearance marks a key turning point for the live-action adaptation as it ventures into deeper and more emotional storylines inspired by the original manga arcs. The inclusion of Ace is expected to intensify both the drama and action in the upcoming season.
Xolo Maridueña’s Career and Impact
Maridueña became widely recognized for his role as Miguel Diaz in “Cobra Kai,” which ended with its sixth season earlier this year. He also led DC’s 2023 superhero film “Blue Beetle.” His joining “One Piece” reflects Netflix’s ongoing effort to cast fresh, globally popular actors for its major franchises.
Showrunner Matt Owens told Variety that bringing Ace to life had been “a long-term goal for the creative team.”
Author’s Summary
Xolo Maridueña’s casting as Ace marks a significant step for Netflix’s “One Piece,” blending star power with a new emotional depth for the live-action saga.