Matt Owens, co-showrunner and executive producer for the first two seasons of Netflix’s “One Piece,” has announced his departure from the series. On Instagram, Owens expressed that working on the live-action adaptation over the past six years has been a transformative and fulfilling experience. However, he has decided to leave the project to focus on personal well-being and mental health. Owens extended his gratitude to the show’s creator, Eiichiro Oda, as well as Shueisha, Tomorrow Studios, Netflix, and the entire cast and crew for their collaboration and hard work.
As reported by Deadline, the first season of “One Piece” was co-managed by Owens and Steven Maeda. Although Maeda remains an executive producer, he stepped down from his showrunning role after the first season. In April 2024, Joe Tracz took on the role of co-showrunner and executive producer. Tracz will continue with the series, overseeing the post-production of the second season, which recently concluded filming.
Owens’ departure is anticipated not to affect the possibility of a third season renewal. He has co-written at least one episode for the upcoming second season, and his creative influence on the long-term vision for the show will persist, according to Deadline.
In March, the debut season of “One Piece” garnered two Emmy Awards for stunt coordination and best song in a kids/YA program with “My Sails Are Set.” Last year, Netflix revealed several actors for prominent roles in the second season, including Lera Abova as Nico Robin and Joe Manganiello as Mr. 0. The release date for the second season has not yet been announced.
