One Piece, the Japanese anime series, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024 and has evolved from a niche interest to a global phenomenon. The show, which has aired over 1,000 episodes, boasts fans like French President Emmanuel Macron and rapper Travis Scott. The comic series it’s based on has sold over 500 million copies, setting a Guinness World Record.
Initially, One Piece had a modest following. Zach Logan, who started the One Piece Podcast in 2009, recalls, “Back then, anime conventions had just a few fans. Today, they’re packed with One Piece enthusiasts.” The series, which began in Japan in 1997, quickly gained popularity and helped Shonen Jump magazine reclaim its top spot in manga sales.
Hiroyuki Nakano, the manga’s current editor, was captivated from the start. He describes One Piece as revolutionary for its intricate storytelling and character development, setting it apart from the cliffhanger-driven manga of the time.
The anime, which first aired in October 1999, faced challenges in the U.S. due to poor dubbing and censorship. However, its international popularity surged during the pandemic, as viewers had more time to explore its vast episodes.
Today, One Piece enjoys a robust American following, highlighted by Monkey D. Luffy’s appearance in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Despite its daunting length—watching from start to finish would take over two weeks—fans find the show’s depth and interconnected storylines compelling.
Logan compares One Piece to Doctor Who in terms of its vastness and complexity. “People often start by feeling overwhelmed, but by the end, they’re left wanting more,” he says.
