Unexpected Reunion: Will Netflix Shake Up One Piece Season 2 by Bringing Luffy and Shanks Together?

Warning: Spoilers ahead for the One Piece manga and potentially season 2.

Summary

In Netflix's live-action adaptation of One Piece, there are indications of a future reunion between Luffy and Shanks, who is the source of inspiration for Luffy's aspiration to become a pirate. Despite their near encounters in previous story arcs, both in the manga and anime, fans are eagerly awaiting their long-awaited and anticipated reunion.

The live-action series may bring Luffy and Shanks together early, which could disappoint long-time fans if it occurs before the manga's canon reunion, even if it satisfies new viewers. Netflix's adaptation of One Piece sets the stage for various events, including the eventual reunion between Luffy D. Monkey (played by Iñaki Godoy) and Shanks (played by Peter Gadiot). However, for this reunion to happen in season 2, the Netflix series would have to deviate from the original anime and manga canon. In season 1, Netflix's One Piece delves into Luffy's backstory, uncovering who or what motivated him to become a pirate.

Netflix's Live-ActioN One Piece Is Building To A Luffy And Shanks Reunion

: As Shanks and his crew anchor at Windmill Village, a young Luffy becomes acquainted with the notorious Red Hair Pirates. Luffy develops an admiration for Shanks, who, before embarking on his journey to the Grand Line, entrusts him with his iconic straw hat. Throughout the first season of One Piece, it is evident that Luffy aspires to earn Shanks' approval through his pursuits as a pirate. Although the possibility of their reunion in the live-action adaptation of One Piece seems inevitable, it is unlikely to occur during the show's second season, unless there are significant deviations from the original storyline.

Shanks serves as the source of inspiration for Luffy's aspiration to become the Pirate King, and without Luffy's knowledge, he succeeds in making his long-time friend proud during the climactic season 1 finale of One Piece. In episode 8, "Worst in the East," of One Piece season 1, Shanks is one of the many pirates who chance upon Luffy's wanted poster. The captain of the Red Hair Pirates is genuinely impressed by Luffy's unwavering dedication. Significantly, Shanks encounters Luffy's poster while traversing the Grand Line, the very destination where Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, are also aiming to venture next.

Needless to say, Netflix's live-action One Piece is preparing for an inevitable reunion between Luffy and Shanks, reminiscent of the inception of the One Piece anime. Considering the show's emphasis on their bond, the moment when these two characters meet again is likely to be deeply gratifying. Regrettably, viewers should temper their expectations for this occurrence in One Piece season 2.

Luffy And Shanks Probably Won't Reunite In One Piece Season 2

Despite the early episodes of One Piece placing a significant emphasis on the relationship between Luffy and Shanks, the manga and anime have yet to depict a true reunion between the two characters. Instead, they often find themselves narrowly missing each other and sharing only fleeting encounters. This is evident during the Marineford Arc, where Shanks and Luffy briefly find themselves on the same battlefield. However, their interaction is cut short as Luffy loses consciousness before they can fully catch up. Disappointingly, Shanks departs before Luffy regains consciousness, leaving fans of the duo wanting more.

Shanks and his crew edge closer to their long-awaited reunion with Luffy during One Piece's Wano Country Arc. This anticipation builds as they bear witness to the intense clash between Ryokugyu and Momonosuke, a conflict sparked by Luffy's actions. Shanks, displaying his formidable Haki, even intervenes in the battle, capturing the attention of the Straw Hat Pirates. Although Luffy reminisces about his dear old friend in this pivotal moment, they do not actually cross paths once again. These near misses only heighten the excitement for the eventual "real" reunion between Luffy and Shanks as the One Piece story unfolds. However, it also underscores the prolonged journey that lies ahead for the live-action adaptations of these beloved characters, as their meeting is unlikely to occur anytime soon.

Netflix's One Piece Could Reunite Shanks & Luffy Early, But It Shouldn't

While it remains uncertain in both the One Piece manga and anime as to when Luffy and Shanks will reunite, the live-action series has the potential to depict an earlier reunion, despite its unlikelihood. The live-action adaptation seems to be adhering closely to the key elements of the original material, particularly due to Oda's extensive involvement in the decision-making process. Nevertheless, Netflix's One Piece has introduced a few notable alterations to the established canon. One of the most significant character modifications in the live-action adaptation involves Luffy's grandfather, Monkey D. Garp (portrayed by Vincent Regan), who appears in the story earlier than anticipated. It is conceivable that the same could occur with Shanks in the live-action series.

Netflix could potentially shorten the story and have Shanks reunite with Luffy earlier, which would alleviate the frustration of viewers who have been eagerly awaiting this moment. However, this decision may disappoint long-time fans who have been patiently waiting for this reunion to happen in the original anime and manga. It could also diminish the significance of the reunion for newcomers who are just starting to watch the series. The anticipation and excitement of seeing Luffy and Shanks meet in the canonical storyline of the show is something that One Piece fans have been looking forward to for a considerable amount of time. If this reunion were to occur first in the live-action adaptation of One Piece, it might feel like a cheap substitute after all these years of anticipation, particularly for fans of the original manga.

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.