Warning: This list includes major deaths from One Piece as we compile a comprehensive list of every significant death in the series.
Despite its long run, One Piece rarely features character deaths in the anime. Eiichiro Oda, the series creator, has openly expressed his dislike for killing off characters and actively tries to avoid it in his writing. As a result, the “Team Rocket is blasting off again!”ending is often used for most villains, which can be frustrating for fans who prefer definitive conclusions for characters.
It is regrettable for the author to acknowledge that in certain instances, characters must meet their demise for the plot to progress. Thus, we will be examining all the significant deaths of characters in One Piece, both those that have already impacted the story and those that may affect future manga chapters. Please be advised: spoilers for the entire One Piece series lie ahead.
All confirmed main character deaths in One Piece
Rest assured, we are not nitpicking and making baseless assumptions. All the characters mentioned have permanently passed away and will not be returning. Due to limitations, we will only be discussing the main story characters from One Piece who have met their demise.
Goal D. Roger
Despite facing a terminal illness, Gol D. Roger, also known by his bounty name “Gold Roger,”accomplished what no one else had been able to achieve: navigating the treacherous Grand Line and discovering the elusive final island. Despite his numerous achievements, Roger ultimately chose to surrender to the Marines after bidding a tearful farewell to his beloved family and friends, determined to not let his illness take his life.
Just moments prior to his execution, Roger proclaims that ignites the start of the legendary pirate age: all of his riches are available for anyone to claim, along with the prestige, notoriety, and influence that accompany it. The elusive “One Piece”is believed to be hidden somewhere on the open waters, which sparks a renewed enthusiasm for piracy and draws many adventurous souls, including the determined Straw Hat Luffy, to set sail.
Portgas D. Ace
Despite a difficult childhood, Ace’s life changed for the better when he reunited with his brother. He had always been shunned by those who knew his father, Gol D. Roger, the infamous pirate king. However, he was fortunate to have been raised by his grandfather figure, Garp, who was a member of the Marines. In his final moments, Ace felt grateful for his brother and adoptive family for bringing joy back into his life.
Despite acknowledging his initial intention for Ace to die, Eiichiro Oda also regrets not including him more in the story. Fortunately, in the One Piece anime, there are filler episodes during the Arabasta arc where Ace temporarily joins Luffy’s crew as they journey through the desert region, allowing for more interaction between the two brothers.
Whitebeard (Edward Newgate)
Whitebeard, who was known for his strength and lack of facial hair, gained a reputation as the strongest man in the world following the passing of Gold Roger. His unique way of treating his crew, by calling them his sons and viewing them all as family, resulted in a large and closely bonded group made up of various factions.
During the Marineford arc, Whitebeard and his crew bravely fought to save his adoptive son Ace. Unfortunately, their efforts were in vain as they were unable to rescue Ace. Whitebeard’s fury was unleashed and he caused extensive damage to Marineford. Despite being attacked by Blackbeard’s crew, Whitebeard stood his ground until his death, refusing to show any signs of retreat and protecting those he held dear. Not a single injury was found on his back, proving his unwavering determination.
Many
Monet is one of Ceaser Clown’s assistants, however, her true allegiance lies with Doflamingo. She plays the role of ensuring that the crazed scientist remains under control. When Trafalgar Law arrives on the island, Caesar demands his heart in exchange for Monet’s, as a precaution against any potential betrayal. Monet’s bird-like limbs, resembling a harpy, are a result of Law’s powers, and she also possesses a Devil Fruit ability that allows her to control snow.
After encountering the Straw Hats, Monet is wounded by Zoro’s blade but not fatally. She is left in a state of horror as Tashigi takes her away. Monet then calls Doflamingo, apologizing for her failure and revealing her plan to set off a weapon to destroy Punk Hazard. However, in a mix-up, Ceasar stabs Monet, mistakenly thinking he is killing Law.
Character Profile: Vergo
Since he was 10, the Marine Vice Admiral has been a member of the group, but little do they know that he is secretly working undercover for Doflamingo. He provides valuable information on the Marines’ movements and any crucial details that could impact their operations with Kaidou. When he betrays Law and Smoker in Punk Hazard, it appears that nothing can stand in his way.
Despite constantly relying on his removed heart as a safety net during battles, Vergo underestimates Trafalgar Law and is eventually left for dead in pieces. Monet’s attempt to unleash a weapon that only Caesar will survive leads to the explosion of the area where Law had left Vergo in Punk Hazard. Doflamingo later confirms his death upon arriving on the island in search of his allies.
Pedro
On the island of Zou, our paths crossed with Pedro, a jaguar mink and the esteemed leader of the Nox Pirates. This notorious crew is on a mission to uncover the secrets of the Ponyglyphs, ancient engravings containing crucial information that the World Government fiercely guards. Despite his intimidating reputation, Pedro is a honorable man who willingly joins forces with Luffy to rescue Sanji from his forced marriage to Big Mom.
Despite losing his left eye in his initial encounter with Big Mom, Pedro is well aware of the consequences of getting on her bad side. Therefore, during their confrontation, he makes a selfless decision to ensure the safety of the Straw Hat crew as they flee from Whole Cake Island. In doing so, he hopes that the crew will also play a role in ushering in the enigmatic “Dawn of the World”era, a concept that is repeatedly alluded to throughout the series.
Shimotsuki Yasuie
Despite his cheerful demeanor, Yasuie carries a heavy burden stemming from his past. He is constantly smiling as a result of being forced to consume a SMILE, a manufactured Devil Fruit created by Doflamingo, in order to survive alongside his adopted daughter. Yasuie also bears the weight of being the lone survivor among those who resisted Orochi’s rule and witnessed the death of Oden.
Despite the apparent leak of the Red Scabbard’s plan in Wano, Yasuie takes full responsibility and claims it was all just a prank. However, Orochi seizes this chance to execute him, the only remaining troublemaker. Although Yasuie’s death is a tragedy, it ultimately allows the plan in Wano to carry on. His sacrifice is revered and celebrated by the people of Wano after Kaidou is defeated.
Ashura Doji
In the past, in Kuri, a perilous area of Wano, Ashura delighted in his unlawful ways, taking advantage of anyone he pleased. When Oden declared his intention to restore the region to a more honorable state, Ashura welcomed the challenge of the Shogun’s son. After being defeated by Oden, Ashura pledged his allegiance and became one of his followers, joining the ranks of the Red Scabbards.
During the raid on Onigashima, the Red Scabbards hesitated when a figure claiming to be Oden suddenly appeared. However, Ashura took immediate action, recognizing that this was not the real Oden but an imposter conjured by Kanjuro. As the imposter revealed explosives, Ashura bravely tackled and leapt out of the room to save his fellow Scabbards. Sadly, his heroic act resulted in his own death.
Kurozumi Kanjuro
Despite his strange appearance and seemingly comical power to bring his drawings to life, Kanjuro was not taken seriously by many. He was first introduced during the journey to Dressrosa and we were all captivated by Kin’emon’s determination to reunite with his long-lost friend. However, our hopes were shattered when it was revealed that Kanjuro was actually a treacherous traitor, putting their mission to save Wano in grave danger.
Despite being considered a close ally by Kin’emon, Kanjuro, the notorious traitor of One Piece, met his ultimate demise at the hands of his former comrade. However, he did not meet his end quietly. In a final display of his abilities, Kanjuro summoned a colossal fire monster named “Kazenbo”that ravaged everything in its path, including his former master. This occurred during the intense battle between Big Mom and Trafalgar Law and Eustass Kidd, ultimately leading to Kazenbo’s fatal defeat.
Kurozumi Orochi
During his youth, Orochi cunningly maneuvered his way into the inner circles of the Wano elite, eventually earning the title of Shogun through his collaboration with Kaidou. His excessive paranoia, fueled by the knowledge that the Red Scabbards and Momonosuke had survived his and Kaidou’s attack, only led to more oppression and suffering for the people of Wano under his tyrannical rule.
The wicked ruler of Wano, who served under Kaidou, created chaos and somehow managed to escape being transformed into an eight-headed serpent. Despite facing numerous beheadings, Orochi’s cunning allowed him to survive until all his heads were severed. However, his demise came when Kanjuro’s dying Kazenbo set him ablaze, and his former bodyguard Denjiro, who plotted to overthrow the tyrant, ultimately delivered the final blow by cutting off his last head.
Izou
Before the Wano arc, our knowledge of Izou was limited to being a member of the Whitebeard pirates who participated in the attempt to save Ace during the Marineford arc. However, after Oden’s departure from the Whitebeard pirates to join the Roger pirates on their ultimate voyage, Izou chose to remain with the crew and accompanied him in his quest to stop Oden from leaving.
Despite being a former member of the Whitebeard crew, Izou was killed while attempting to protect Luffy from the elusive CP0. Despite being severely injured and outnumbered, Izou valiantly tries to impede the assassins’ progress towards Luffy. While his actions ultimately led to his death, Izou was able to buy Luffy some valuable time. The tragedies in Wano have claimed many lives.
Absalom
The deceitful lion-man makes his appearance in the One Piece series during the Thriller Bark arc, pursuing Nami’s affections and showcasing his Devil Fruit powers of invisibility. After the time skip, Absalom puts his abilities to use as a freelance writer, gathering exclusive stories for various news organizations. However, his involvement with one of the most notorious individuals on the ocean leads to trouble.
Moria goes searching for his faithful subordinate and discovers the news of Absalom’s death. Although the death of a minor character may seem insignificant, it serves as the trigger for our realization that Blackbeard has the ability to take and transfer Devil Fruit powers to others, likely at the expense of their lives.
Donquixote Mjosgard
You may recall this Celestial Dragon’s encounter with Queen Otohime after he crashes on Fish-Man Island in an attempt to retrieve his former slaves. As the only survivor, he requests assistance and Otohime graciously aids the unpleasant man on the condition that he takes her to the World Government to advocate for equality.
Regrettably, his idealism led to him being condemned to death by the God’s Knights, the law enforcement group of Mary Geoise, the birthplace of the Celestial Dragons.
Pythagoras
Pythagoras is considered to be among Dr. Vegapunk’s satellites, as the scientist’s intellect is so advanced that he must separate his mind from his physical body in order to continue his work. Pythagoras embodies the “wisdom”aspect of Vegapunk’s character, tasked with documenting the data from all of Vegapunk’s experiments and creations. Despite his non-confrontational nature, Pythagoras makes every effort to resolve conflicts through negotiation rather than violence.
Doubt
In addition to his resemblance to a member of Daft Punk, Shaka also serves as one of Dr. Vegapunk’s satellites, embodying the “good”aspect of his personality. His main responsibility is to lead the other satellites and conduct analyses, as he possesses a keen ability to assess the character of others. After discovering the Straw Hats’ true intentions on Egghead Island, Shaka trusts them and allows them to join his mission.
Shaka is known to be one of the most enigmatic satellites as he contacts Luffy’s father, the leader of the Revolutionary Army, Dragon, when he believes his own life is in danger. Unfortunately, Shaka’s prediction proves to be accurate as he is ultimately killed by his fellow satellite, York. The sudden and brutal nature of Shaka’s death is shocking, not only because of the identity of his killer, but also because of the graphic way in which he is shot in the face. This type of violence is unprecedented in the story thus far.
Nefertari Cobra
In Arabasta, the Straw Hat crew assists Princess Vivi in saving her kingdom from Baroque Works and their leader Crocodile. During this time, they also meet King Cobra, a benevolent leader who always prioritizes the well-being of his people. However, it seems that his past confrontations with Crocodile have taken a toll on him, as he is now seen as a frail, wheelchair-bound man after only two years.
Cobra’s death in One Piece history is arguably one of the most significant (second only to Ace’s) due to its profound impact on the storyline. During the Revolutionary Army’s incident at the Levely, Cobra sacrifices himself to ensure Sabo’s escape from Mary Geoise. Imu, filled with animosity towards those with the initial “D”in their name, interrogates Cobra. In response, Cobra reveals that his ancestor, Nefertari D. Lili, shared the same initial and was killed by Imu and the Five Elders, who considered her their ancient enemy.
Dr. Vegapunk
Despite his good intentions, Dr. Vegapunk, the smartest man in the world, often saw his creations being misused by the Marines as weapons of destruction. As an optimistic scientist, he had hoped that his inventions would bring about positive change for humanity, but instead they were used to maintain control over well-meaning pirates.
Despite sustaining a fatal injury from his former comrade, Admiral Kizaru, during the Straw Hat crew’s escape from Egghead Island, Vegapunk’s main body still managed to transmit a message to the world. This message revealed long-held secrets of the World Government.
Despite Vegapunk’s history of dividing his mind and personality among his satellite robot bodies, his true demise is uncertain. However, the central body known as Vegapunk or the “Stella”by the satellites has been verified as deceased, as indicated by a flatlined heart rate monitor that activated a broadcast message.
One Piece Deaths in Character Backstories
These are the deaths of characters from the past, before Luffy embarked on his journey, that greatly impacted our present-day heroes. These events set off a chain reaction that has led to the current state of affairs, which Luffy and his companions must now challenge.
Shimotsuki Kuina
Despite Zoro’s determination and hard work, he was always outmatched by Kuina in their youth. No matter if it was during training or with real swords, our beloved moss-head could never surpass Kuina’s incredible skill in swordsmanship. After yet another defeat, Kuina sadly confides in Zoro that she fears her gender will hold her back and prevent her from surpassing the strength of men, a belief instilled in her by her father.
Despite the tragic end to Kuina’s life, Zoro refuses to accept such nonsense and insists that she promise him that one of them will achieve their shared dream of becoming the world’s greatest swordsman. Although Kuina’s death remains open to interpretation, a determined Zoro takes up her sword and vows to make their dream a reality.
Quay
It is evident that Usopp’s mother, Banchina, passed down her distinctive nose to him. Banchina was a kind and caring woman who was left behind by Usopp’s father, Yasopp, when he joined Shanks’ crew in pursuit of his dream to become a pirate. Despite not being present for his family, Yasopp later acknowledged that he couldn’t do much for them. Although we don’t see much of Banchina, she tragically passed away from an illness with Usopp by her side. However, we do know that she deeply loved Yasopp and hoped for his return, which inspired Usopp’s own dream of becoming a powerful warrior of the sea.
After the passing of his mother, Usopp continued to tell the same lie about pirates arriving on the island and his father Yasopp returning in order to bring some excitement to the sleepy town of Syrup Village. This also serves as an explanation for why Usopp was so determined to befriend the bedridden Kaya.
Mother-in-law
The ex-marine came across two children, Nami and Nojko, in the aftermath of a violent conflict and took them under his wing. Despite their mischievous tendencies, the family lived contently in the modest Cocoyashi village. However, Nami’s desire for a better life led her to resort to thievery, causing conflicts within the family. This ultimately led to a brief separation when Nami declared that they were not truly family because they were not related by blood.
When the ruthless Arlong arrived in the East Blue and claimed control over their island, Bell-mère did not possess enough funds to ensure the survival of her entire family. She refused to accept that her daughters were not considered family and used what little money she had to ensure their well-being, sacrificing her own life in the process. Nami and Nojiko were comforted by the fact that in her final moments, Bell-mère truly saw them as her daughters and herself as their mother.
Dr.Hiriluk
Despite eating a Devil Fruit that transformed him into a more human-like creature, Chopper was rejected by his own kind. However, a self-proclaimed doctor named Hiriluk took him under his wing and treated him like a son. Despite the island’s king, Wapol, prohibiting any doctors from helping anyone but himself, Hiriluk taught Chopper the ways of medicine.
Despite facing multiple threats to his life, Hiriluk chose to go out on his own terms by consuming a concoction that caused him to explode. Rather than succumbing to illness, allowing Wapol’s men to kill him, or letting the poison mushroom given to him by Chopper take his life, he took control of his fate. Chopper, inspired by Hiriluk’s message of wanting to help others, declares that he will become the world’s greatest doctor in honor of his mentor.
Shipwright Tom
Tom, a Fish-Man residing in Water 7, earned a living as a highly skilled shipwright and took great pride in his craft. However, his life took a turn when the Marines arrived and apprehended him for building Gol D. Roger’s ship. Facing a potential death sentence, Tom presented his proposal for a formidable sea train that could alleviate Water 7 and the nearby islands from poverty and piracy, ultimately persuading the judge to grant him a pardon in exchange for his plans.
When a young Spandam began searching for the plans of the ancient warship Pluton that Tom had in his possession, Cutty Flam and Iceburg’s mentor selflessly sacrificed himself to protect them. In response to Tom’s defiance, Spandam launched an attack on the World Government ships that had come to pardon Tom. However, Spandam framed Cutty Flam for the attack, leading to Tom taking full responsibility and being sentenced to execution in Enies Lobby. Despite this, Tom urged his apprentices to continue building ships and to take pride in their work.
Portgas D. Rouge
After parting ways with his crew, Roger eventually found love with a woman named Rouge. Together, they had a child, but Roger knew he wouldn’t live long enough to see their child’s birth. As a result, he named the child “Ace”and left Rouge behind. The Marines were aware of Roger’s relationship with a woman in their town before his death, causing Rouge to conceal her pregnancy for 20 months.
Ace’s adoptive grandfather and Roger’s rival, Monkey D. Garp, takes in Ace as Rouge does not survive childbirth. In honor of his mother and to distance himself from his father, Ace takes on her last name and carries on her legacy and freckles. This also serves as a way for Ace to show gratitude towards his mother for saving him.
Nico Olvia
Just like her daughter, Nico Robin, Olivia was an archaeologist who embarked on a voyage to investigate the Poneglyph and the forbidden “Void Century,”which carried a death sentence for anyone who dared to research it. She was taken captive by the Marines, but Jaguar D. Saul, a towering Vice Admiral who sympathized with her cause, aided her escape by deserting his position.
The Marines arrived at Ohara and deemed the island as a threat to the world. As a result, they destroyed the entire island, including Olvia. While Saul was captured, Robin was able to escape thanks to Aokiji’s mercy, forcing her to live a life on the run.
Queen Otohime
Despite the concerns of the populace, Queen Otohime remained an idealist, firmly believing that Fish-Men could coexist as equals with Humans on the surface. She was determined to spread this message through rallies, even though they often annoyed the public who feared living amongst humans due to the history of Celestial Dragons’ enslavement of Fish-Men and Mer-Folk.
Despite making considerable strides after teaming up with Donquixote Mjosgard, she ultimately faced a tragic fate at the hands of Hody Jones. Otohime’s efforts even gained recognition from the World Government, who granted Fish-Men the option to coexist with Humans on the surface. Tragically, Otohime’s beliefs ultimately led to her assassination by Hody Jones, a fanatical Fish-Man who was raised to hate humans. Hody personified Otohime’s greatest fear – the deliberate passing down of hate to the next generation.
Fisher Tiger
Before he formed his crew, Fisher Tiger had already gained recognition as the captain of the Sun pirates, which consisted of a diverse Fish-Man crew and former slaves. He had led a daring attack on Mary Geoise, liberating both Fish-Men and humans, including Boa Hancock and her sisters. As a symbol of their newfound freedom, Tiger covered the Celestial Dragon brand on their bodies with his own.
Despite being ambushed and fatally wounded by the Marines while on a mission to bring young future revolutionary Koala home, Tiger refuses a transfusion of Human blood that could save his life. He confesses to secretly despising Humans because of their history of enslaving him. In his final moments, Tiger’s last wish to his crew is for them to never reveal the truth of his death, in hopes of reducing the animosity between the two races.
Donquixote Rosinante aka Corazon
Despite the fact that his family was targeted for being former Celestial Dragons, Rosinante, who had risen to the rank of Commander, chose to join the Marines. Meanwhile, his brother Doflamingo became a notorious pirate. Rosinante, using the alias “Corazon,”went undercover as a member of Doflamingo’s organization, claiming to be his long-lost brother. In reality, this was not a complete lie, as Rosinante was in fact Doflamingo’s younger brother and reported all of the group’s activities to the Marines.
Upon learning Trafalgar D. Water Law’s complete name, Corazon’s goal shifted to aiding the boy’s recovery from his Amber Lead Syndrome and protecting him from Doflamingo. Despite their unsuccessful attempts with doctors, they decide to search for the Op-Op Devil Fruit, which Doflamingo is also after. During the theft of the fruit, Corazon is injured but manages to feed it to Law while being pursued by Doflamingo. Tragically, Doflamingo ruthlessly murders his own brother when Corazon refuses to surrender Law.
Vinsmoke Sora
The Whole Cake Island Arc provides a deeper understanding of Sanji’s past. It is revealed that during his mother Sora’s pregnancy, his father Vinsmoke Judge subjected her to surgery in order to enhance their quadruplet sons’ strength without sacrificing their emotions.
Despite their father’s indifference towards their well-being, Sora chose to take an experimental drug to combat the consequences of the surgery. While the drug caused Sora to become bedridden and eventually led to her passing several years later, Sanji was the only one who managed to retain their humanity. Throughout it all, Sanji was grateful to at least feel something.
Kozuki Oden
Despite being born into royalty and having a duty to his kingdom, Oden was a carefree individual who preferred adventure over his heritage and responsibilities. He frequently engaged in fights and yearned to venture beyond the borders of Wano. Despite his wanderlust, Oden still held a deep love for his home and worked to improve it, even going as far as rebuilding a dilapidated area into a small village with the help of his loyal followers.
During his five-year journey with Whitebeard and Gol D. Roger, Oden fell in love, got married, and became a father to a son named Momonosuke. He grew into a virtuous man and set a goal for himself to become Shogun and bring about the opening of Wano’s borders. However, his plans were thwarted when he discovered that Orochi and Kaidou had conspired to overthrow Wano, ultimately leading to a heartbreaking moment where Oden sacrificed himself to protect his loyal followers and declared that Wano’s saviors would one day arrive.
Ginny
After enduring the events at God Valley alongside Ivankov and the newly introduced Kuma, Ginny settled into a tranquil existence with Kuma. In due time, all three joined the Revolutionary Army under the leadership of Luffy’s father, Dragon. However, Ginny was later apprehended by the Marines and forced into marriage with a World Noble. It was during this time that she became pregnant.
After the failed experiments conducted by Five Elders member Saint Saturn, Ginny was expelled from Mary Geoise with the belief that she would not survive. She had developed Sapphire Scale disease, which made exposure to natural light fatal. Despite the risks, Ginny bravely returned home on a ship. Sadly, she eventually succumbed to her illness, but her baby was saved. The child, named “Bonney,”was raised by Kuma.
Rocks D. Xebec
Before Roger became famous, Rocks and his crew were notorious as a threat on the open seas. The Rocks Pirates were made up of some of the most renowned and feared individuals to ever navigate the Grand Line, such as a youthful Whitebeard, Big Mom, Kaidou, Gloriosa from Amazon Lily, and Shiki the Golden Lion, among others in their formidable lineup.
Following the God Island incident, the crew was witness to the downfall of the Rocks Pirates, which required the combined strength of both Roger and Garp. The intense battle resulted in the disbandment of the pirate crew. While the circumstances of Rocks’ death remain a mystery, the World Government is actively attempting to conceal any information about his existence. It will be interesting to see how his legacy continues to impact the current world of One Piece.
Undoubtedly, this list will continue to expand as the One Piece series progresses, as more notable deaths are bound to occur. In the meantime, be sure to also explore our selections for the most emotional moments, best fights, and strongest characters in One Piece.
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