Casting the Ideal Live-Action Crocodile for Season 2 of One Piece: A Perfect Fit?

Article Overview

One Piece season 2 is set to introduce fan-favorite villain Crocodile.

Crocodile is anticipated to be the primary antagonist in season 2 of One Piece, setting the stage for the Arabasta arc. Bobby Cannavale and Amir Diab, unconventional choices, have the potential to infuse the character of Crocodile with a distinct and surprising twist. Cannavale's comedic expertise and Diab's stage charisma as a pop star could bring a fresh dynamic to the role. Furthermore, speculation arises that a mysterious actress from season 1 might have already been selected to portray Crocodile.

The casting of Crocodile is crucial for the future of the show, as One Piece season 2 approaches. While Netflix's live-action adaptation has deviated slightly from the original manga, it is expected that important moments from the source material will be included in the upcoming season, particularly as the Straw Hats venture into the Grand Line. The Arabasta Saga, which features the popular villain Sir Crocodile, will be part of this season, specifically towards the end of the Little Garden Arc.

Sir Crocodile is the head of Baroque Works, a criminal organization that governs the Arabasta Kingdom. He is a heartless and shrewd warlord, serving as a prominent adversary in the One Piece anime and a recurring nemesis for Luffy. Known for his distinctive mannerisms, such as his swagger, cigar, scarred face, and oversized golden hook hand, Crocodile wields power over sand with the Sand-Sand Devil Fruit. This, coupled with his cunning and influence, makes him a formidable opponent. Actors being considered for the role of Crocodile must have the ability to exude his intimidating presence and embody his authoritarian villainy.

8. Michael Madsen

The experienced actor has been in movies like Reservoir Dogs and The Hateful Eight

One Piece season 2 features an intriguing fan-casting choice for the role of Crocodile, portrayed by the talented Michael Madsen. With a remarkable career spanning over three decades, Madsen has become renowned for his exceptional performances in notable films like Reservoir Dogs and The Hateful Eight, directed by Quentin Tarantino. Apart from his striking resemblance to the character, Madsen's previous roles as an outlaw serve as a valuable resource, enabling him to craft a compelling persona for the crime boss.

Madsen's gravelly macho-whisper would perfectly complement Crocodile's personality, thereby enhancing the cool factor that the series has consistently maintained. This actor, hailing from Chicago, possesses the potential to give Crocodile a distinct voice that could surprisingly resonate, while also delving deeper into his character compared to the anime's portrayal. Madsen's capability to invoke empathy even in the most ruthless gangsters further adds to his aptitude in portraying the intimidating Desert King.

7. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

The Emmy-winner actor has been in movies like The Matrix Resurrections and Aquaman

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II possesses a strong and well-defined jawline, exuding authority and an aura of intimidation that make him an ideal match for the character of Crocodile. His exceptional portrayal as the malevolent Black Manta opposite Jason Momoa's Aquaman in the 2018 film of the same title solidifies his expertise in playing seafaring villains. Fans can anticipate Abdul-Mateen's reprisal of this role in the highly anticipated sequel Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom. Additionally, his previous performance in the 2021 movie Candyman showcases his proficiency in wielding a hook hand, further enhancing his versatility as an actor.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II could be a valuable addition to the cast of Netflix's One Piece, possessing the acting skills necessary to embody Crocodile's intimidating presence. Nevertheless, as his career has flourished in recent years, there is a possibility that Abdul-Mateen's rising fame might exceed the budget allotted for the anime adaptation. Nonetheless, considering his prior television experience, notably in the groundbreaking HBO series Watchmen, it is conceivable that he could potentially join the cast of Netflix's One Piece.

6. Josh Stewart

The actor has played a couple of villains, including in The Dark Knight Rises

A seasoned TV actor known for his dedication, Josh Stewart has had numerous roles in popular series like CSI Miami and The Walking Dead: Cold Storage. He excels at portraying characters who carry out their gruesome duties with a sense of resignation and skill, showing no remorse. This quality would be perfect for reflecting Crocodile's merciless nature and complete indifference towards the people of Arabasta.

In the 2009 horror film The Collector, Stewart seamlessly inhabited the gritty world of the movie as a highly skilled thief. Additionally, he played Barsad, Bane's right-hand man, in Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight Rises, showcasing his familiarity with playing villainous characters. Given his track record, Stewart could be precisely the perfect fit for One Piece, embodying the role of a suave mob boss who is always seen with a cigar, exuding a distinct air of coolness.

5. Oded Fehr

He is best known for the role of Ardeth Bay in The Mummy

Oded Fehr, an Israeli actor with a talent for bringing intriguing characters to life, would be an excellent choice for Netflix to portray Crocodile in a live-action adaptation. Fehr is most recognized for his portrayal of Ardeth Bay in The Mummy film series, where he played a descendant of the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt and their bodyguards. Given Arabasta's Egyptian influence, Fehr's natural fit in this setting could be repurposed to add a sinister quality to Crocodile, setting him apart from other villains in One Piece.

Fehr's proficiency in Hapkido adds to his versatility, making him well-prepared for the action-packed fight scenes in season 2. portraying Ra'as al Ghul in Young Justice, Fehr's commanding voice is reminiscent of his character in Young Justice, presenting the perfect template for his portrayal of Crocodile. His vocal talent, physicality, and familiarity with the genre give Oded Fehr a promising chance at delivering a captivating rendition of Baroque Works' intrepid leader, a treat for avid fans of the manga or anime adaptation.

4. Bobby Cannavale

Cannavale was recently in Old Dads

While primarily known for his comedic roles, Bobby Cannavale possesses a distinct Crocodile-like appearance. Often cast as mildly antagonistic characters, Cannavale has showcased his versatility as police officer Jim Paxton in Marvel's Ant-Man and as Skinny Razor in Martin Scorcese's The Irishman. Drawing inspiration from his experience in the latter film, Cannavale could effectively tap into the underlying anger that many of his characters convey, making him an excellent fit for the role of Crocodile. Furthermore, his comedic talent could bring a unique flair to the vibrant and eccentric world of One Piece.

3. Amir Diab

In addition to his music career, Diab is also an actor

Better known for his music career, Amir Diab is a pop sensation overseas, being a singer and composer.

2. One Piece Episode 1's Mystery Actor

Yet the Egyptian musician has also ventured into the realm of acting, starring in various Egyptian-produced feature films and musicals.

2. One Piece Episode 1's Mystery Actor

Though he may be an unconventional choice, One Piece has consistently taken risks on emerging actors from around the globe rather than relying on established Hollywood names.

2. One Piece Episode 1's Mystery Actor

Apart from visually resembling the Desert King, Diab could captivate Netflix's audiences with his stage presence and popstar charisma as Crocodile.

2. One Piece Episode 1's Mystery Actor

This would confirm an old One Piece theory

One of the most intriguing casting choices for the character Crocodile may have already been foreshadowed in season 1. In the inaugural episode, a crowd witnesses the execution of the legendary pirate Gold D. Roger, sparking a global quest among pirates to find the fabled One Piece. Within the crowd, we catch glimpses of younger versions of significant figures like Mihawks and Smoker. However, the camera particularly lingers on a woman who bears a striking resemblance to a character from the anime. Many fans speculate that this mysterious woman could indeed be Crocodile.

A fan theory suggesting Crocodile's past involvement as a woman could imply that the casting for Crocodile has already taken place. The supporting evidence for this theory can be found in the Impel Down Arc of the anime, where Emperor Ikanov, a character with the ability to alter others' genders, hints at harboring a secret concerning Crocodile. It has been widely speculated that Crocodile was once a woman, and Netflix's One Piece season 1 may have ultimately affirmed this. Whether this was a subtle nod or a clue as to how Crocodile will be portrayed remains to be seen.

1. Thomas Haden Church

Crocodile would be the second "Sandman" in his career

Thomas Haden Church, the renowned American actor, has a remarkable acting career spanning from the iconic Western film Tombstone, to his latest performance in Spider-Man: No Way Home. While Thomas is widely recognized for his portrayal of Sandman, the compelling and tragic villain in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man 3, he continues to embody this character years later in No Way Home. Interestingly, Crocodile, the character in question, also possesses sand-based abilities through his chosen Devil Fruit, making Thomas an ideal choice for the enigmatic hook-handed warlord, adding a touch of metaness to his casting.

Haden Church would be a perfect choice for the role of the sadistic crime boss in Twisted Metal. In this role, he portrays Agent Stone, a character who shares Crocodile's ambition and cold-hearted nature. With his experience in playing captivating villains in fantastical settings, Haden Church would undoubtedly shine in the live-action adaptation of One Piece on Netflix.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled about the upcoming second season of One Piece and the introduction of the iconic villain, Crocodile. The casting choices presented in the article offer exciting possibilities for bringing this complex and formidable character to life.

Among the potential actors mentioned, Michael Madsen and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II particularly stand out as promising contenders for the role. Madsen's extensive experience and natural charisma would lend a distinct edge to Crocodile's villainy, while Abdul-Mateen II's powerful presence and versatility make him an equally compelling choice. Regardless of who is ultimately cast, I believe that the production team will carefully consider the character's portrayal to ensure it aligns with the expectations of fans and remains faithful to the original manga and anime.

I am confident that the casting of Crocodile will play a crucial role in shaping the success of One Piece season 2. The right actor will bring depth and nuance to this iconic antagonist, making him a formidable foe for the Straw Hat Pirates and a memorable addition to the overall narrative. As a fan, I eagerly await the reveal of who will take on the mantle of Crocodile and bring him to life in the live-action adaptation.

One Piece Manga - Anime One Piece is an incredible adventure-filled series that has captivated its fans for over two decades. It follows the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they search for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece, in order to become the King of the Pirates. With its compelling storyline, diverse and lovable characters, epic battles, and themes of friendship and determination, One Piece has created a vast and immersive world that keeps fans eagerly anticipating each new chapter or episode. It is a timeless masterpiece that continues to redefine the boundaries of the shonen genre, making it a must-watch or read for any anime or manga enthusiast.