Xolo Maridueña joins Netflix’s 'One Piece' Season 3 as Portgas D. Ace

Xolo Maridueña Joins Netflix’s One Piece Season 3 as Portgas D. Ace

Netflix has officially cast actor Xolo Maridueña, known for his roles in Cobra Kai and Blue Beetle, as Portgas D. Ace in the third season of its live-action adaptation of One Piece. The announcement was made Tuesday via Netflix’s Tudum platform.

Major Casting for a Beloved Character

Maridueña’s portrayal of Ace marks a significant moment in the series, as the story moves toward some of the manga’s most emotional and action-filled arcs. Ace, one of the most admired figures in Eiichiro Oda’s long-running manga and anime, is the older adopted brother of protagonist Monkey D. Luffy and a powerful pirate capable of wielding fire through the Flame-Flame Fruit.

“Ace is one of the most beloved characters in the ‘One Piece’ universe,” Netflix stated in its official release.

This casting highlights Netflix’s intent to infuse the live-action series with youthful talent and global star power.

Maridueña’s Expanding Career

Xolo Maridueña first rose to fame as Miguel Diaz in Cobra Kai, which wrapped its sixth season earlier this year, and later took on the lead role in DC’s 2023 superhero film Blue Beetle. His selection as Ace continues his trajectory as one of the most promising young actors in contemporary television and cinema.

Showrunner Matt Owens told Variety that bringing Ace into the story had been a long-term goal for the creative team.

Author’s Summary

Xolo Maridueña’s addition as Portgas D. Ace signifies a powerful new phase in Netflix’s One Piece, blending his rising star power with one of the saga’s most iconic roles.

EntertainmentNow — 2025-11-07