Toei Animation’s Revamp of Classic One Piece Character Sparks Backlash from Fans

Toei Animation Studio is facing backlash from fans for altering the color scheme of a One Piece character, prompting criticism.

Sabo’s return to the Revolutionary Army is highlighted in One Piece Episode 1116. After the destruction of the Lulusia Kingdom, his whereabouts were uncertain for a period of time. Fortunately, Sabo was not present on the island during the attack and was able to safely reunite with the headquarters of the Revolutionary Army.

The episode showcases several prominent characters, such as Ahiru, who serves as the deputy commander of the East Army and is also Belo Betty’s assistant. In the original manga, Ahiru is depicted with brown skin, a green coat, and brown hair. However, in Shueisha’s official coloring, her hair and complexion are portrayed as darker.

Despite previously showing her original color scheme in Episode 885, fans were displeased with the fair complexion of the character in the latest episode. Toei has changed her appearance, causing disappointment among some viewers.

I was wrong she is not a new girl she appeared before in onepiece but clearly her colors scheme was changed pic.twitter.com/c2YggTKR7N

— Pew (@pewpiece) August 17, 2024

Upon sharing frames from the episode, the leaker Pew refers to Ahiru as a “new Revolutionary girl,”but soon discovers that she has been introduced previously. However, fans are expressing dissatisfaction with the “whitewashing”of Ahiru, as every colored version of her depicts her with brown skin.

One fan notes, “It’s interesting to see how One Piece revolves around the idea of discovering a diverse world with different cultures and backgrounds, yet it unfortunately suffers from some of the most blatant whitewashing in anime that I can recall.”

Another person commented, stating that Toei took the melanin like swiper once they realized that the character would become a significant figure.

“It is argued that Oda never intended for Robin to have dark skin, as she is meant to be portrayed as Russian. Altering her appearance in this manner seems unnecessary and ultimately changes the character for no valid reason,”states another source.

The One Piece manga is currently building up to its long-awaited Elbaf Arc, hinting at a significant role for Usopp. For additional One Piece content, check out the Iron Giant’s name and our ranking of the most powerful Straw Hats.