Xolo Maridueña Cast as Portgas D. Ace in Netflix’s ‘One Piece’ Season 3
In a casting announcement that has sent ripples of excitement through the anime and live-action communities, Xolo Maridueña, known for his roles in “Cobra Kai” and “Blue Beetle,” has been confirmed to portray the pivotal character of Portgas D. Ace in the third season of Netflix’s adaptation of “One Piece.” The news, officially unveiled by Netflix, fulfills long-held fan expectations and signals a significant escalation in the scale of the series.
Maridueña will embody Ace, a formidable pirate and a central figure in the sprawling narrative of Eiichiro Oda’s beloved manga and anime. As a high-ranking member of the Whitebeard Pirates and a wielder of the Mera Mera no Mi, a powerful Devil Fruit granting him the ability to control fire, Ace’s presence promises to inject a new level of intensity into the already action-packed series. But his importance extends far beyond brute strength; Ace shares a deeply intertwined history with Monkey D. Luffy, the show’s protagonist, a connection that will become increasingly crucial as the story unfolds.
The Significance of Portgas D. Ace in the ‘One Piece’ Saga
For those unfamiliar with the source material, understanding Ace’s role is paramount to grasping the emotional core of “One Piece.” He isn’t merely a powerful ally to Luffy; he’s a brother, forged through a unique and tragic circumstance. Their bond represents themes of found family, sacrifice, and the enduring power of loyalty – concepts that resonate deeply with the series’ global fanbase. Ace’s eventual fate is arguably one of the most impactful moments in the entire “One Piece” story, and his introduction in Season 3 sets the stage for potentially heartbreaking events to come.
The character’s physical demands are also noteworthy. Portgas D. Ace is consistently depicted as exceptionally muscular, often showcasing his physique with minimal clothing – typically dark shorts, boots, and his signature bright orange hat. This presents a physical challenge for Maridueña, who will undoubtedly undergo rigorous training to convincingly portray the character’s imposing presence. What impact will this casting have on the show’s overall production budget?
This casting follows the recent announcement of Cole Escola joining the cast as Bon Clay, a flamboyant and beloved character known for his unique Okama style. These additions demonstrate Netflix’s commitment to faithfully adapting the source material and delivering a compelling experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. The production team is clearly prioritizing accuracy and character depth.
Filming for the third season is slated to begin by the end of November 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, building upon the established production hub for the series. Fans can anticipate the premiere of Season 2 on March 10th, 2026, providing a bridge to the eagerly awaited arrival of Portgas D. Ace.
The anticipation surrounding Maridueña’s portrayal is palpable, fueled by years of fan casting and speculation. Will he capture the essence of this iconic character? How will his performance shape the emotional landscape of the series?
Introducing Portgas D. Ace…
XOLO MARIDUEÑA IS JOINING ONE PIECE SEASON 3!!! pic.twitter.com/arysP73sOR
— Netflix (@netflix) November 5, 2025
Source: Netflix
Original reporting based on Dark Horizons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Xolo Maridueña’s Casting
Share this exciting news with fellow ‘One Piece’ fans and let us know your thoughts on Xolo Maridueña’s casting in the comments below!
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