Matt Owens Steps Down from Netflix’s ‘One Piece’ Following Season 2

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Netflix announced on March 22, 2025, that filming for the second season of its live-action adaptation of the anime series “One Piece” has concluded, but news of co-showrunner Matt Owens exiting the project following the season’s debut has left fans wondering about the show’s future. Owens, who has dedicated more than six years to the series, has stated that he is stepping away to focus on his mental health.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Owens reflected on his journey with “One Piece” as both life-changing and fulfilling. He expressed gratitude to creator Eiichiro Oda, production companies Shueisha and Tomorrow Studios, Netflix, and the entire cast and crew. “It’s time for a break for at least some amount of time,” Owens said. “I’m gonna take a breath, do some therapy, try and rank up in Marvel Rivals, and come back refreshed for the new adventures that await.”

Netflix showed support for Owens’s decision, reposting his message and stating, “You set us on a course for something truly special.” Owens’s departure is notable, as he was one of the key figures alongside co-showrunner Steven Maeda, who left the role after the first season, leading to Joe Tracz stepping in for the second season.

While the transition in showrunners reflects a significant change, it remains unclear how this shift will affect the show’s trajectory. Many fans are hopeful for the future of the series, with Tracz poised to take over as the sole showrunner for season three, which has yet to be confirmed by Netflix.

In related news, Netflix also announced a delay for the 12th episode of another series, “My Happy Marriage,” due to production delays. Since the anime’s debut in 2023, it has gained a substantial following thanks to its unique blend of fantasy, historical drama, and romance.

Netflix attributed the delay to the production studio Kinema Citrus and reassured fans via a social media announcement. Despite the frustration delays often bring, many fans expressed understanding, highlighting the importance of supporting the crew’s well-being. One user emphasized their appreciation for the series and suggested patience as the team works to deliver the best version possible.

Amidst this news, another beloved series, “Avatar: The Legend of Korra,” is set to leave Netflix on April 16, 2025, raising concerns among its fanbase. Following a brief announcement on potential licensing changes, some had predicted this departure due to Paramount‘s plans to centralize the “Avatar” franchise on its Paramount+ platform.

For fans, while the removal of “The Legend of Korra” from Netflix may seem harsh, the good news is that “Avatar: The Last Airbender” will remain available until April 2027, following a recent license extension. This extension likely reflects the ongoing interest generated by the live-action adaptations and increasing focus on promoting the franchise.