Katey Sagal Joins Netflix's One Piece as Dr. Kureha in Season Two

Netflix's live-action adaptation of *One Piece* has garnered significant attention since its debut in 2023, leading to the announcement of new cast members for its second season, including Katey Sagal, known for her roles in *Married… with Children* and *Sons of Anarchy*. Sagal portrays Dr. Kureha, a 140-year-old doctor on Drum Island, who becomes a central figure in the storyline as she navigates her relationships with other characters, including the young reindeer Tony Tony Chopper.

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Sagal's journey into the *One Piece* universe began through her husband, Kurt Sutter, who encouraged her to watch the series after hearing about it from a Netflix contact. Initially unfamiliar with manga or anime, Sagal and her family quickly became captivated by the show's blend of heartwarming and edgy storytelling. She described the first season as "beautiful," which ultimately led to her excitement about joining the cast.

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Dr. Kureha is depicted as a strong, independent woman who has faced significant challenges, including the tyrannical rule of King Wapol, who has exiled or captured the island's doctors. Sagal expressed her admiration for Kureha's complexity, noting that despite her tough exterior, the character has a "squishy" side. The actress emphasized the importance of physicality in her portrayal, stating that the character's wardrobe and props helped her connect with Kureha's essence.

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Sagal highlighted the thematic depth of her character's storyline, particularly her relationship with Chopper and her stand against Wapol's oppressive regime. She noted the parallels between the narrative and contemporary issues such as segregation and the treatment of immigrants, suggesting that the story's exploration of tyranny remains relevant today. Sagal remarked, "The spirit of fighting against this tyrannical person is very timely," indicating her awareness of the broader implications of the storyline.

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As the second season progresses, Sagal's portrayal of Dr. Kureha is expected to resonate with audiences, especially as her character's journey unfolds. The season finale promises to showcase significant moments for Kureha, and Sagal hinted at her continued involvement in the *One Piece* universe through voice-over work. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed a newfound interest in exploring manga, stating, "It has opened my eyes," while acknowledging her preference for live-action projects.

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Sagal's enthusiasm for her role and the series was evident in her discussions about the character and the show's impact. Co-showrunner Joe Tracz noted that Sagal's genuine appreciation for the first season played a crucial role in her casting.

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• “There was no audition. It was an offer. I was just so excited. You get jobs where you’re just like, ‘Oh my God,’” — Katey Sagal, Actress

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• “She was such a badass, and also heartwarming and a little bit squishy on the inside.” — Katey Sagal, on Dr. Kureha

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• “This story of fighting against this tyrannical person is very timely, and so yes, the spirit of that was definitely in there.” — Katey Sagal, reflecting on the show's themes

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*One Piece* season two is currently streaming on Netflix, continuing to expand its reach within the realm of live-action adaptations.

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