Netflix’s One Piece Co-Showrunner Matt Owens Is Stepping Away

Netflix’s One Piece might be winning on multiple fronts as it approaches a second season debut on the streamer, but one major force behind the scenes has unfortunately been compelled to step away from the production.

Taking on an adaptation of One Piece was long considered an impossible task for live-action, thanks in part to the series’ unique and often hyper-stylized art and characterizations but also because even adaptations of more conventionally created manga and anime had fallen far short of fan expectations and standards. However, Netflix would take a chance on the project despite past failures. This decision would pay dividends, as One Piece would become an instant hit with both new and longtime fans of the franchise. With a second season in the works, fans more recently got an update confirming that a third season of One Piece is coming to Netflix as well, with the writer’s room already in the process of mapping out the script.

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While the cast and crew were able to make One Piece break the curse of live-action anime adaptations despite the uniqueness of the source material, that herculean feat wasn’t without its major challenges. Unfortunately for fans, one essential part of that bulwark has finally given way under the strain. One Piece co-showrunner Matt Owens took to Instagram to pen a message to the fans, highlighting how working on the project for the past six years had been “a life-changing journey” and “a dream come true” but had also ultimately been a lot and exacted a toll on him. “So I’m stepping off the Going Merry to take a break and focus on myself and my mental health,” he continued. “Thank you so much to Oda, Shueisha, Tomorrow Studios, Netflix, and the entire cast and crew for your trust, partnership, and hard work.” Owens also made sure to tell fans what he’d be up to while he was gone and promised to return soon.

One Piece Should Be Able To Weather The Storm Without Him

While unfortunate, the departure certainly sounds like it’s essential, and the man has undoubtedly earned it. Owens’ fellow showrunner Steven Maeda should be capable to keep the ship afloat in his absence, but there’s no doubt that this hiatus will have an impact on the show, even if only in terms of the timeline for production. It’s already been confirmed that One Piece season 2 has finished filming and has likely been through the bulk of directed post-production by now, meaning that Owens’ absence won’t be felt until the third season rolls out. Fans need not despair, however, as he’s likely to return in time to work on the fourth season. While that installment hasn’t been confirmed yet, it seems very likely.

The live-action One Piece has been good for manga sales, Netflix numbers, and new fans looking to get into the long-running series. However, it’s worth noting the sheer amount of effort that goes into this production. With Owens’ exit, fans should spare some time to reflect on that and gain an even larger appreciation for the cast, crew, and showrunner of this show and all their other favorite shows as well. For now, viewers and co-workers alike certainly wish him well as he takes time off to recharge and take care of himself.

Netflix’s live-action One Piece is available to stream on Netflix, with Season 2 set for a late 2025 release.

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Source: Matt Owens/Instagram