10 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets of One Piece You Probably Missed

The live-action adaptation of One Piece arrived surrounded by skepticism. After all, turning one of the most popular anime series in history into a live-action production seemed like an impossible mission. Yet Netflix surprised audiences by delivering a show that respects the essence of Eiichiro Oda’s work while winning over both longtime fans and newcomers.

Behind the cameras, however, there are fascinating details that went unnoticed by most viewers. Here are 10 behind-the-scenes secrets that help explain why One Piece became one of Netflix’s biggest successes.

1. The Going Merry Was Built for Real

Many viewers assume that the Straw Hat Pirates’ ship was created digitally, but the reality is quite different.

The production team built a full-scale physical version of the Going Merry. This allowed the actors to interact directly with the set during filming, adding a greater sense of authenticity to scenes aboard the ship.

2. Eiichiro Oda Personally Approved the Cast

The creator of One Piece did more than simply follow the production process. He was directly involved in selecting the main cast members.

Before the series premiered, Oda revealed that he wanted to ensure every actor captured the essence of characters that millions of fans have loved for decades.

3. There Are References to Characters Who Haven’t Appeared Yet

Attentive fans discovered numerous easter eggs hidden throughout the sets.

Wanted posters, newspapers, and props contain references to characters and events that had not yet been adapted when the first season was released.

4. The Baratie Is Almost Entirely Real

Zeff’s famous floating restaurant impressed audiences with its incredible level of detail.

This was possible because a large portion of the structure was physically built. As a result, it became one of the most expensive and elaborate sets of the first season.

5. Taz Skylar Trained Like a Professional Fighter

Playing Sanji required much more than memorizing lines.

Taz Skylar spent months training in martial arts, flexibility, and physical conditioning to accurately recreate the cook’s iconic kicking techniques.

6. The Cast Formed a Genuine Friendship

Much of the chemistry between the Straw Hat Pirates was created off-screen.

During filming in South Africa, the cast spent significant time together, building friendships that naturally translated into their on-screen performances.

7. The Costumes Hide Subtle Tributes to the Manga

The costume department worked on details that are almost invisible to the average viewer.

Some outfits feature patterns, textures, and design elements inspired directly by Eiichiro Oda’s original illustrations.

8. Many Props Came Directly from the Manga

The art department constantly used the manga as a reference.

Maps, books, posters, signs, and even small objects briefly seen on screen were recreated from elements drawn by Oda throughout the years.

9. The Production Preferred Practical Sets Over Excessive CGI

While visual effects remain important, the creative team chose to invest heavily in physical set construction.

This decision helped create a more immersive world and contributed to the series standing out from other live-action anime adaptations.

10. Season Three Began Before Season Two Premiered

This may be the most surprising secret of all.

Netflix reportedly began preparations for Season Three before Season Two had even premiered. The decision reflects the platform’s confidence in the project and its commitment to adapting major story arcs from the manga.

All signs indicate that the next chapter of the journey will bring the Straw Hat Pirates to the legendary Alabasta Arc, considered by many fans to be one of the greatest storylines in the history of One Piece.

The Future of the Grand Adventure

The success of the live-action adaptation proved that, when creators respect the original source material, it is possible to transform an anime into an engaging experience for new audiences.

With new seasons on the horizon, Eiichiro Oda’s continued involvement, and a creative team dedicated to hiding references for attentive fans, the world of One Piece continues to sail toward even greater horizons.

And if the first season’s production already contained so many hidden secrets, future adventures will likely bring even more surprises for those following the Straw Hat Pirates’ incredible journey.