Netflix’s “One Piece” live-action adaptation has stirred up excitement with its latest casting announcements for Season 2. However, amidst the cheers for the new cast additions, a shadow of doubt looms over Jamie Lee Curtis’ anticipated participation. Despite earlier hints and the actress’s professed admiration for the series, her involvement now seems unlikely.
Casting Revelations: David Dastmalchian Joins the Crew
Season 2 of Netflix’s “One Piece” has fans thrilled as it introduces a new lineup, including David Dastmalchian, renowned for his role in “The Dark Knight”. He is set to portray the cunning villain Mr. 3, also known as Galdino, in the much-awaited Little Garden arc, part of the Alabasta saga. This casting decision has sparked considerable excitement, aligning with Netflix’s strategy to maintain the show’s momentum with high-profile actors.
Jamie Lee Curtis: From Fan to Cast Hopeful
Jamie Lee Curtis has never been reticent about her love for Eiichiro Oda’s “One Piece”. Prior to the release of the live-action’s first season, she openly expressed her enthusiasm and desire to join the cast, particularly eyeing the role of the feisty Dr. Kureha. Matt Owens, the showrunner for “One Piece“, even fueled these speculations by gifting Curtis a Dr. Kureha action figure, hinting at her possible casting.
“Jamie Lee Curtis would be the perfect Dr. Kureha,” remarked Owens, acknowledging the actress’s fervent fan base within the “One Piece” community. Curtis’s involvement would not only be a dream come true for her but also a significant draw for the series.
Conflicting Schedules: A Barrier to Casting
Despite the strong desire from both fans and fellow cast members like Emily Rudd (who plays Nami), for Curtis to join the live-action series, her current commitments might prevent this dream casting from becoming a reality. Curtis is currently immersed in the filming of “Freaky Friday 2”, a sequel to the popular body-swap comedy that became a cultural touchstone.
With the production of “Freaky Friday 2” overlapping with the schedules for “One Piece”, the likelihood of Curtis managing both roles is diminishing. While nothing has been definitively confirmed by Curtis or the “One Piece” creators, the timeline suggests a narrowing window for her involvement.
What’s Next for One Piece?
As “One Piece” fans eagerly await further developments, the series promises more intrigue and action with its new cast. While the community may feel a twinge of disappointment if Curtis does not join, the inclusion of talents like David Dastmalchian ensures that the adaptation continues to garner interest and excitement. As the “One Piece” live-action saga unfolds, it remains a pivotal series in Netflix’s portfolio, aiming to capture the essence of Oda’s epic while weaving new narratives into its rich tapestry.