One Piece, the Japanese anime series that has captured the hearts of fans around the world, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024. With over 1,000 episodes and more than 500 million copies of the comic series sold, One Piece has become one of the most successful franchises in the world.
The show follows Monkey D Luffy and his crew of pirates as they search for the legendary treasure known as the One Piece. Along the way, they face off against government forces and rival pirates, using their unique powers gained from eating “Devil Fruits.”
Despite its massive success now, One Piece had humble beginnings outside of Japan. Zach Logan, creator of the One Piece Podcast, recalls a time when the show was considered a “niche within a niche” in the United States. However, in Japan, One Piece helped revitalize the manga industry and became a cultural phenomenon.
The emotional depth and character development in One Piece set it apart from other anime series, according to Hiroyuki Nakano, the current editor of the One Piece manga. The show’s ability to create compelling storylines and memorable characters has resonated with fans worldwide.
During the pandemic, One Piece’s popularity soared as people had more time to binge-watch the series. Now, with a significant following in the US and appearances in events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, One Piece continues to attract new fans.
While the length of the series may seem daunting to some, fans like Logan and Nakano believe that it is part of what makes One Piece so special. The intricate storytelling and interconnected plotlines keep viewers engaged and eager for more.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of One Piece, there’s no better time to dive into this epic adventure. You can catch all the action on BBC iPlayer and join the millions of fans who have fallen in love with Monkey D Luffy and his crew.
