Netflix has confirmed that Xolo Maridueña will portray Portgas D. Ace in the upcoming One Piece Live-Action Season 3. The announcement follows a wave of casting news as production ramps up for the third installment of the hit adaptation. Maridueña, known for his roles in Blue Beetle and Cobra Kai, joins the ensemble as the fiery older brother of protagonist Monkey D. Luffy. The reveal comes just a day after Cole Escola was announced as Bon Clay, signaling Netflix’s commitment to building out the Arabasta saga.
Netflix announced on November 5, 2025, that actor Xolo Maridueña will play Fire Fist Ace in One Piece Live-Action Season 3. The casting was revealed via the show’s official social media accounts and confirmed by Netflix’s press team. Ace is a fan-favorite character from the original manga and anime, known for wielding fire powers after consuming the Mera Mera no Mi devil fruit. The decision to cast Maridueña reflects Netflix’s strategy to blend rising stars with established talent. Filming for Season 3 is expected to begin in early 2026.
Character Background and Actor Profile
- Character: Portgas D. Ace
- Actor: Xolo Maridueña
- Previous Roles: Blue Beetle, Cobra Kai
- Debut Arc: Drum Island (teased), Arabasta Saga (supporting role)
- Powers: Flame-Flame Fruit (Mera Mera no Mi), fire manipulation
Ace is the sworn brother of Luffy and Sabo, and his arrival marks a pivotal moment in the series’ narrative expansion.
Reactions: Production Team and Fan Response
The One Piece Live-Action team stated: “We are beyond excited to announce that Xolo Maridueña will be playing the beloved Portgas D. Ace in the next stretch of our adventure!”
Fans on X (formerly Twitter) responded with enthusiasm, praising the casting as “perfect” and “inspired.” Anime commentators from IGN and Anime News Network noted that Maridueña’s charisma and action experience make him a strong fit for the role.
Impact Analysis: Franchise Growth and Narrative Expansion
The addition of Ace signals a major narrative shift as the series enters the Arabasta arc. His presence deepens the emotional stakes and expands the world-building. Maridueña’s casting also boosts the show’s appeal among younger audiences familiar with his superhero and martial arts roles. Strategically, Netflix continues to build momentum ahead of Season 2’s release, using casting reveals to sustain fan engagement.
What’s Next: Season 2 Teasers and Future Announcements
- Season 2 Release: Mid-2026 (exact date TBA)
- Post-Credits Tease: Ace expected to appear briefly
- Season 3 Production: Begins Q1 2026
- Upcoming Cast Reveals: Additional Arabasta characters expected soon
Netflix is expected to unveil more casting news in the coming weeks as the live-action adaptation continues to scale.
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