Matt Owens, co-showrunner of Netflix‘s live-action adaptation of the megapopular manga “One Piece,” has left the series, citing a need to “focus on [his] mental health” and “do some therapy.” Season 1 of “One Piece” debuted in 2023, while Season 2 recently wrapped production.
The news came in an Instagram post on Owens’ personal page.
“The last 6 years working on the live action One Piece have been a life changing journey,” he wrote. “A dream come true. It’s also been A LOT. So I’m stepping off the Going Merry to take a break and focus on myself and my mental health. Thank you so much to Oda, Shueisha, Tomorrow Studios, Netflix, and the entire cast and crew for your trust, partnership, and hard work. For now I’m gonna take a breath, do some therapy, try and rank up in Marvel Rivals, and come back refreshed for the new adventures that await. Thanks to everyone who has supported me. See you real soon!”
Owens had support from Netflix in his decision, with the official “One Piece” account reposting his message in an Instagram story and writing, “You set us on a course for something truly special.”
On Season 1, Owens served as co-showrunner alongside Steven Maeda after the pair developed the series together. Ahead of production on Season 2, Maeda stepped down as showrunner but remained an executive producer, while Joe Tracz took over his showrunning duties. Tracz continues to lead the series following Owens’ departure.
“One Piece” stars Iñaki Godoy, Mackenyu, Emily Rudd, Jacob Romero and Taz Skylar. The series was created in partnership with Shueisha and produced by Tomorrow Studios and Netflix. Alongside Tracz and Maeda, executive producers include Eiichiro Oda, Marty Adelstein and Becky Clements.
