Overview
- Jinbei recognized Luffy’s potential and joined the Straw Hats, providing critical support during battles.
- Kaido, former member of the Rocks Pirates, became the formidable leader of the Beast Pirates.
- Big Mom remains a fierce opponent despite her appearance changes, and Nami evolved from her time with Arlong to trust the Straw Hats.
In the One Piece universe, forming a pirate crew often creates unbreakable bonds, leading members to sail together until the end. However, the series showcases a few unique characters who have had the privilege of navigating between different crews, sharing intriguing tales from their past journeys. The contrasting philosophies and cultures of these crews provide a rich backdrop, revealing how these characters have evolved through their diverse experiences at sea.
Below, we explore the most notable characters in One Piece who have been integral members of multiple pirate crews.
8 Jinbei
Jinbei’s Admiration for Luffy Leads Him to the Straw Hats
- First Appearance: Episode 430
As the former captain of the Sun Pirates, Jinbei emerged as a symbol for the Fishmen community. His mission for racial equality led him to accept an invitation as a Shichibukai, thereby aligning with the World Government. During the pivotal Marineford War, Jinbei showcased his loyalty by defending Luffy, whom he had heard about through Ace.
Jinbei has since made sporadic appearances to assist Luffy and the Straw Hats, particularly during the Whole Cake Island arc, where he played a crucial role in ensuring their escape from Big Mom’s wrath. Though he expressed interest in joining the Straw Hats at Fishman Island, it wasn’t until the Raid on Onigashima in the Wano arc that his membership was officially confirmed.
7 Kaido
Kaido’s Transformation from Rocks Pirate to Mighty Yonko
- First Appearance: Episode 739
Despite his overwhelming strength today, Kaido was once part of the legendary Rocks Pirates, serving under the notorious crew that included infamous pirates like Big Mom and Whitebeard. As the leader of the Beast Pirates, Kaido’s dealings with Doflamingo allowed him to amass an army strengthened by artificial Devil Fruits.
His historical connections with Rocks create a backdrop for his fierce rivalry with Big Mom and his complex interactions with other legendary pirates. Kaido’s rise to power was meteoric, leading him to establish a formidable domain in Wano, although ultimately, Luffy would prove to be his nemesis.
6 Big Mom
Big Mom’s Evolution: Fierce Figure Despite Changes in Appearance
- First Appearance: Episode 571
Big Mom made her explosive entrance during the Straw Hats’ quest to rescue Sanji at Whole Cake Island, instantly establishing herself as a formidable foe. An influential Yonko, her capabilities in Armament Haki and her unique Homie abilities make her a dangerous adversary. Notably, her aesthetics have shifted over the years, but her menacing reputation endures.
Once a member of the Rocks crew alongside Kaido and Whitebeard, Big Mom has maintained her fierce nature, utilizing her maternal army of children to exact fear and loyalty. Her infamous status as a pirate continues to grow, earning her notoriety across the seas.
5 Whitebeard
Whitebeard’s Transformation From Ruthless Pirate to Beloved Father Figure
- First Appearance: Episode 485
Whitebeard, known for his caring nature towards his crew, was not always embodying this compassion. Flashbacks suggest his past with the Rocks crew portrayed a more ruthless side, contrasting sharply with his later persona. Unlike Kaido and Big Mom, who remained unchanged, Whitebeard’s character evolved, fostering deep loyalty among his crew as he treated them as his children.
4 Shanks
Shanks’ Growth From Roger’s Apprentice to Influential Yonko
- First Appearance: Episode 1
The enigmatic aura surrounding Shanks captivates fans, with his childhood spent aboard Roger’s ship granting him unique insights into piracy. Recent arcs have revealed more of his backstory, including his role in significant events like the clash with Whitebeard. Though a novice during his early days, Shanks has matured into a formidable captain with one of the strongest crews in the present narrative.
3 Nami
Nami’s Journey from Arlong’s Crew to Essential Straw Hat Navigator
- First Appearance: Episode 1
Initially, Nami had no dreams of sailing with Luffy and the Straw Hats for the long term. After the Fishman Arlong forcibly enlisted her into his crew and caused heartbreak in her village, she reluctantly complied, believing her actions could help free her people. However, after Luffy and the Straw Hats intervened to liberate her village, Nami recognized their true camaraderie, which ultimately solidified her place as the crew’s invaluable navigator. Her skills with the Clima-Tact have frequently saved the crew from perilous situations.
2 Blackbeard
Blackbeard’s Betrayal of Whitebeard’s Family to Forge His Own Legacy
- First Appearance: Episode 146
Blackbeard’s ascent to infamy began with an unimaginable act of betrayal. After Whitebeard adopted him into his crew, Blackbeard’s insatiable ambition led him to murder his fellow crew member Thatch over the powerful Yami Yami no Mi fruit. His subsequent escape catalyzed the formation of the Blackbeard Pirates and plunged the world into chaos, including the execution of his former ally, Ace, demonstrating his shrewdness as a strategist in the treacherous landscape of piracy.
1 Kozuki Oden
Oden’s Ambition to Open Wano’s Borders Through His Legendary Piracy
- First Appearance: Episode 960
Kozuki Oden holds a distinctive place in One Piece lore as a member of both Whitebeard and Gol D. Roger’s crews. Driven by his dream to see Wano’s borders opened, Oden’s recruitment into Whitebeard’s crew marked the beginning of his legendary status. His exceptional swordsmanship and uniquest knowledge made him a key asset.
Later, he joined Roger’s crew, assisting them in uncovering crucial historical truths, including the Void Century and the secrets of the One Piece itself, which solidified his legacy as one of the most important figures in the series.