Nefertari Vivi’s Casting in One Piece Live Action Season 2 Sparks Outrage Among Fans

During the week of August 19, 2024, fans were introduced to the latest cast members for season 2 of One Piece Live Action. Four new additions were revealed, including the actors portraying Dr. Kureha, Dr. Hiriluk, King Nefertari Cobra, and Miss Wednesday/Nefertari Vivi.

Despite the positive reception of the former pair’s casting for One Piece Live Action season 2, there has been significant division among fans regarding the latter pair. The controversy surrounds the Alabasta arc and its strong influences from Arab and Middle Eastern culture, as South Asian actors have been chosen to portray the two monarchs. While some fans have voiced their support for this decision, others have been critical of it.

One Piece Live Action Season 2 Castings Stir Controversy Among Fans

The recent casting choices for season 2 of the One Piece Live Action have sparked controversy due to the Alabasta arc’s Egyptian influence and perceived discrepancy with the cast. This influence was directly inspired by the original manga’s creator, Eiichiro Oda, who mentioned it in one of the SBS question corners found in the volumes of the series.

Similarly, critics of the casting are arguing that Netflix and Tomorrow Studios are disregarding Oda’s intentions and deviating from the original source material. However, reports on the production of both the first and second seasons indicate that Oda has been heavily involved and has approved almost every decision made.

Despite the complexity of the situation, it is worth noting that the Alabasta arc draws inspiration from both South Asian and Arab/Middle Eastern cultures. However, it is important to acknowledge that the Nefertaris and Alabasta’s capital city of Alubarna are heavily influenced by Egyptian culture. This context is crucial to understanding why some critics find fault with the casting choices for the second season of the One Piece Live Action.

Response from Fans

The evidence for this vindication and justification can be seen in numerous online posts of a similar nature. While some are highlighting the points mentioned above, others are shifting the blame onto the fandom for accepting these castings. Additionally, some are bringing attention to the possibility that Oda’s original comments on Alabasta’s inspiration may be overshadowed by a surge of support for these recent castings.

“We’re about to have people gaslight us into thinking arabasta was always explicitly south asian, this is going to be ridiculous [crying emoji],” worried one netizen.

“Tbh they missed a lot with this casting. They should have chosen Arab actors to represent the Nefertari family and considering that the plot of Arabasta is focused on liberating a country, it would have been great if the actors were Palestinian. But it’s Netflix…,” posted another.

“Desert kingdom of ARABasta but no arabs in it,” noted a third with reference to the literal translation of the country’s name.

Similarly, those in favor of the casting are also making similar arguments, but from a different perspective. They are citing the presence of South Asian cultural influences in parts of Alabasta, as stated earlier. Furthermore, some are acknowledging their personal concerns but would be satisfied if Oda himself approves of the choice.

“Anyways. arabasta is also based of india. if you really hate it dont watch it. ill have fun:),” commented one fan.

“Swear yall didn’t have that problem before an indian guy got casted, also arabasta is inspired by both egypt and india,” claimed a second supporter.

“So this confirms that Cobra and Vivi, the Royal family of Arabasta will be played by indian actors instead of Arabs.. That’s a bit disappointing. But if Oda approved of this, then I’m okay with it. Will look forward to seeing him in action~ #OnePieceNetflix,” somewhat begrudgingly accepted a third.

Despite the controversy surrounding the casting choices for the second season of One Piece Live Action, it is evident that these recent castings have caused the most division among fans. Many fans have also expressed doubts about the casting of Nico Robin, raising concerns about the potential success of the second season.

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