The One Piece anime is set to wrap up the Egghead Island arc in its December 28 episode. After that, the long-running series will take a short hiatus until spring, returning with the much-anticipated Elbaf arc. Fans can mark their calendars for April 5, 2026, when the new adventure officially begins. The announcement was shared on the franchise's official website along with a brief teaser trailer.
The second half of the Egghead Island arc has been airing since April 5 of this year, introducing major developments in the story and setting the stage for future arcs.
Moving forward, producers plan to release around 26 episodes per year. Each episode will adapt roughly one chapter of Eiichiro Oda's original manga, ensuring a faithful and detailed pace that keeps the anime closely aligned with the source material.
Produced by Toei Animation, the One Piece anime made its debut in October 1999 and has since become one of the longest-running and most beloved shows worldwide. In 2024, the series celebrated 25 years of non-stop adventures, laughter, and heartfelt moments that continue to captivate audiences.
The original manga created by Eiichiro Oda began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in July 1997. Spanning 113 volumes and over 516 million copies in circulation by 2022, One Piece holds the record as the best-selling manga in history. Its enduring success lies in its ability to blend grand storytelling, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters.
Beyond the manga and anime, One Piece has evolved into a massive global franchise, featuring movies, merchandise, video games, and even live-action adaptations. The story of the Straw Hat Pirates continues to inspire fans around the world, promising even more adventures on the horizon. For longtime followers looking to show their dedication, collectible items like fan-made One Piece-themed desk mats bring a touch of adventure to everyday setups.