Filming for Season 2 of Netflix's eagerly awaited live-action series One Piece has concluded, bringing fans one step closer to Luffy's next adventure. Expectations for the next season are extremely high, as the first season received a lot of positive reviews. Fans are worried after the series suffered an unexpected setback a few weeks after production wrapped up. This most recent development is a big step forward for the show. Now, as anticipation for Season 2 grows, everyone is watching to see how Netflix handles this unexpected obstacle.

Netflix had to go towards countless hurdles during the making of the first season as the cast and crew involved tried to convince the audience of their sincerity to the original. However, the perfection already set in stone has now been rattled due to a health concern, pushing back One Piece Season 2.

Matt Owens, the co-showrunner of One Piece, has formally left the show. After Season 2's production was finished, Owens announced his departure, citing the need to "do some therapy" and "focus on [his] mental health." The announcement, which was made in a private Instagram post, represents a big change for the show as it continues without one of its main creative forces. Owens had played a significant role in making Eiichiro Oda's cherished world come to life on screen. 

In an Instagram story, the official One Piece account reposted Owens' message, adding, "You set us on a course for something truly special," demonstrating Netflix's support for his choice. Despite the hurdle, the upcoming season continues to appease the audiences thanks to recent updates. One Piece's upcoming season is more exciting because it will feature a number of star celebrities. Sophia Anne Caruso as Miss Goldenweek and Rigo Sanchez as Dragon are the new additions. One Piece is rumored for a 2025 Christmas release. 

Taz Skylar Spills the Perfect Update on 'One Piece' Season 2

Fans are left to wonder if Netflix's One Piece will continue on its current trajectory or if Matt Owens' departure will lead the live-action series in new directions. The future is still up in the air. 

Given Owens’ commitment to remaining faithful to the cherished manga, his exit from One Piece is definitely a significant change. Fans can find comfort, though, in the fact that Season 2 was finished under his direction, guaranteeing narrative coherence. The show seems to be in capable hands with Joe Tracz taking over as co-showrunner, particularly as rumors of a third season surface. Owens gave a heartfelt farewell, implying that he might just need some time to recover before continuing the adventure.

Owens' decision to take a break for his mental health does not necessarily mean that his One Piece career is over. But since the show is positioned for sustained success, there is always a chance he will make a comeback in later seasons. As per the new season of One Piece, given that the original anime had more than 1,100 episodes, Netflix must tackle the difficult task of distilling the main plots while maintaining the spirit that has captivated millions of viewers around the globe.

‘One Piece’ Season 2 Release Date on Netflix: When Is the Much-Awaited Live-Action Returning?

What do you think about Matt Owens’ departure from One Piece? Do you believe he’ll return in future seasons?