As excitement builds for the upcoming second season of Netflix’s live-action adaptation of One Piece, the cast has already begun the promotional tour with some heartfelt, fan-pleasing moments — especially between Emily Rudd and Mackenyu. The two stars, who portray Nami and Roronoa Zoro respectively, recently shared a joyful scene together at Osaka Comic Con 2025, offering a glimpse of the authentic camaraderie that has helped make One Piece such a standout hit for the streaming service.
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Netflix’s One Piece, based on Eiichiro Oda’s beloved manga and anime, took the world by surprise with its first season, blending faithful storytelling with charismatic performances from its ensemble cast. With Season 2 subtitled Into the Grand Line and set to premiere on March 10, 2026, fans have been eagerly awaiting every update about what’s to come.
At the Osaka event on May 4, 2025, Rudd and Mackenyu appeared together on stage for a dedicated One Piece panel where they greeted fans, posed for photos, and shared light-hearted moments that mirrored the chemistry of their characters. In one particularly wholesome snapshot, the two actors stood side by side holding up peace signs, smiling broadly for the crowd — a gesture that delighted attendees and underscored the strong bond forming among the cast off-screen.
The rapport between Rudd and Mackenyu has been noted by fans and critics as one of the emotional cornerstones of the show. Their characters, Nami and Zoro, have a dynamic that in the original series often feels like a sibling-like friendship — full of playful banter, mutual respect, and shared trials — and their real-life connection appears to reflect that same spirit.
Also on hand at the Comic Con promotion was Jacob Romero Gibson, who plays Usopp. The trio used the occasion not only to interact with fans but also to celebrate another milestone for the live-action franchise: One Piece reportedly added its third Guinness World Record to its achievements, further cementing its cultural impact and popularity among multiple generations of viewers.
The buzz around One Piece Season 2 goes far beyond just promotional appearances. Netflix has been steadily rolling out teasers and glimpses of what’s to come, including action-packed looks at the expanded world of the Grand Line and the introduction of formidable new adversaries as the Straw Hat Pirates continue their quest. Recent sneak peeks tease the shadowy Baroque Works organization — one of the saga’s most notorious antagonist groups — setting the stage for high-stakes adventure and deeper character interactions.
More broadly, the enthusiasm for Season 2 reflects not just anticipation for new episodes but also appreciation for the way Netflix’s adaptation captures the heart and humor of the One Piece universe. Fans have celebrated the show’s balance of spectacle and emotional depth, with many noting that the cast’s genuine connections — like the one between Rudd and Mackenyu — help anchor the series in something both epic and heartfelt.
Season 2 will see the Straw Hats setting sail for uncharted waters as they embark on the legendary Grand Line — a perilous sea that promises new landscapes, deeper friendships, and evolution for each character. Alongside returning favorites like Iñaki Godoy as Monkey D. Luffy, Taz Skylar as Sanji, and others, the ensemble is expected to explore some of the most iconic arcs from the original manga while continuing to win over newcomers to the franchise.
For Rudd and Mackenyu, the trip to Osaka and their animated engagement with fans wasn’t just about promoting a show — it was a chance to celebrate a shared journey. From their initial casting and chemistry testing to embodying beloved Straw Hat crew members on global screens, their partnership underscores how One Piece has become more than just another adaptation: it’s a creative endeavor built on enthusiasm, respect, and a real sense of “nakama” (comradeship).
As the promotional cycle gains momentum, with additional teasers and interviews likely on the way, the wholesome moment shared by Emily Rudd and Mackenyu continues to resonate with fans. It serves as a reminder that behind the epic storylines and cinematic adventures lies a cast whose personal camaraderie enriches the world of One Piece both on- and off-screen — helping to ensure that Season 2’s voyage will be just as compelling and emotionally satisfying as the first.
With One Piece Season 2 on the horizon and key cast members already creating memorable moments in promotion, viewers can look forward not only to high-seas adventure but also to the ongoing growth and devotion of its characters and performers alike.
One Piece: Into the Grand Line begins streaming on March 10, 2026 exclusively on Netflix.
