The excitement surrounding the production of One Piece Season 2 continues to build, especially with the introduction of Baroque Works, Princess Vivi, and the anticipation for one of the saga’s most beloved arcs—Alabasta. This marks the Straw Hat Crew’s first significant adventure within the Grand Line, allowing each member to showcase their unique abilities against the notorious criminal organization led by Crocodile, who will be portrayed by Joe Manganiello.
Amidst the action and individual battles, there’s a particular Straw Hat who truly emerges as the real MVP of the Alabasta arc, although this narrative layer is often eclipsed by subsequent arcs. Although we associate Sanji with standout moments like the Baratie arc—where fans are introduced to his character—his crucial contributions in Alabasta frequently go unnoticed. This arc, while not solely focused on him, reveals Sanji as an unsung hero who excels under pressure.
Sanji: The Underrated Champion of Alabasta
Alabasta: Showcasing Sanji’s Hidden Talents
Prior to even arriving in Alabasta, the Straw Hats find themselves targeted by Crocodile’s Baroque Works. As Nami and Zoro battle Mr. 3—who will appear in Netflix’s One Piece Season 2—Sanji cleverly impersonates this wax-themed villain to mislead additional Baroque Works agents, effectively paving the path for his crew. This act not only shows his resourcefulness but also sets the stage for significant plot developments as he manages to defeat two more Baroque Works agents and secures the Eternal Pose that leads them to Alabasta.
This accomplishment is a testament to Sanji’s capabilities, highlighting his role as one of the Straw Hats’ top fighters who is not just powerful but also exceedingly clever and resourceful. His ability to outmaneuver Crocodile, a formidable Warlord of the Sea, before even confronting him is a standout moment that exemplifies Sanji’s tactical brilliance.
Sanji’s wit comes into play again during the Alabasta saga when he disguises himself as Mr. Prince, which allows him to deceive Crocodile into releasing the captured crew members. With Chopper acting as a distraction, Sanji skillfully sneaks into Crocodile’s lair to save his teammates. This moment further cements his role as a key player in the arc, showcasing how his intelligence and quick thinking can alter the tide of battle.
Netflix’s One Piece Elevates Sanji’s Character
Taz Skylar’s Performance: A Refreshing Take on Sanji
As the anticipated release of Alabasta approaches within Netflix’s adaptation, fans are eager to see how this version interprets key moments involving Sanji. Taz Skylar’s portrayal adds a unique coolness to Sanji, and it’s exciting to envision how he will depict Sanji’s clever deceptions in this arc. This adaptation promises to highlight Sanji’s cunning nature while making him even more relatable and charismatic.
In a notable departure from the anime, Netflix’s One Piece has adjusted Sanji’s character by toning down his notorious womanizing tendencies. This change allows Sanji’s romance-centric nature to shine without overshadowing his depth, making it easier for the audience to appreciate his growth into a more complex, nuanced character. Such modifications pave the way for showcasing Sanji’s cool demeanor in Alabasta, further enhancing viewer engagement.
The anticipation for Netflix’s One Piece Season 2 is skyrocketing, particularly in light of the success of the first season, which surpassed many expectations for live-action adaptations of anime. Skylar has hinted that Season 2 will exceed the excitement of its predecessor, exploring deeper narratives and innovative storytelling techniques. Fans can’t wait for both the return of Sanji and the new twists awaiting them in this upcoming season.
Looking Beyond Alabasta: Sanji’s Future Prospects
Future Arcs Await Sanji
Later on, Sanji’s character delves deeper into his mysterious past during the Whole Cake Island arc. Following the events of Alabasta, he faces familial challenges involving the Big Mom Pirates and a surprising wedding. While his backstory is compellingly introduced in Baratie, Whole Cake Island expands on Sanji’s complicated feelings toward his lineage. This arc promises a more vulnerable portrayal, allowing Skylar to explore and express new emotional depths of Sanji’s character.
Though Whole Cake Island is still some distance away in Netflix’s adaptation timeline, fans can eagerly anticipate Sanji’s underrated yet impactful moments in Season 2, which has been confirmed for a release in late 2025, more than two years after Season 1. This forthcoming season is set to be a thrilling ride for fans and promises to reinforce Sanji’s critical role in the One Piece narrative.