One Piece Live-Action: Netflix Casts Cobra Kai Star Xolo Maridueña as Iconic Fan-Favorite Portgas D. Ace for Season 3

The global phenomenon of Eiichiro Oda's One Piece is preparing for a significant narrative escalation in its live-action adaptation. Netflix has officially confirmed a pivotal casting choice for the upcoming third season: Xolo Maridueña, widely recognized for his acclaimed portrayal of Miguel Diaz in Cobra Kai, will step into the role of Portgas D. Ace.

This announcement signals a major advancement in the series' plot trajectory, introducing one of the most essential and emotionally resonant characters from the source material. Ace, the adopted elder brother to protagonist Monkey D. Luffy and the biological son of the legendary Pirate King Gol D. Roger, is central to the core emotional fabric of the One Piece universe. His inclusion promises to inject a new level of high-stakes intensity as the Straw Hat Pirates navigate the treacherous waters of the Grand Line, leading inevitably toward the devastating events anticipated during the Marineford War arc.

Maridueña's selection has been met with positive reception, with audiences eager to witness how his performance will capture the signature charisma, immense power, and ultimately tragic destiny of Ace.

While the production calendar for Season 3 is slated to commence later this year in Cape Town, South Africa, maintaining the series' commitment to visually authentic world-building, fans will receive new content sooner. Season 2, titled One Piece: Into the Grand Line, is already scheduled to hit the platform on March 10th.

Furthermore, the expansion of the dynamic cast continues, with the introduction of other key figures like Bon Clay, set to be played by Cole Escola. The live-action series has garnered widespread critical praise for successfully capturing the spirit of the manga, delivering stellar performances, and achieving remarkable production quality. With the addition of a star like Maridueña to embody Ace, anticipation for the next thrilling chapter of adventure, friendship, and enduring action has reached a high level among the worldwide One Piece faithful.