'One Piece' live action star Mackenyu related to martial arts legacy of Sonny Chiba

'One Piece' actor Mackenyu’s performance as Zoro connects to father Sonny Chiba’s martial arts film legacy

The live-action adaptation of One Piece on Netflix has drawn attention for its casting, including Mackenyu in the role of Roronoa Zoro. The actor’s performance has also renewed interest in his connection to martial arts film star Sonny Chiba.

One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda, has surpassed 1,000 chapters, and its live-action version aims to bring the long-running story to a broader audience.

Mackenyu’s portrayal of Zoro, a swordsman known for his three-sword fighting style, has been supported by his martial arts training. He began practising Kyokushin Karate at the age of eight and undertook further preparation for the role.

Mackenyu is the son of Sonny Chiba, a prominent figure in martial arts cinema. Chiba earned a black belt and a fourth degree in Kyokushin Karate and built a film career that included more than 125 productions with Toei Studios. 

Chiba also appeared in English-language films and became known to wider audiences for his role as Hattori Hanzō in Kill Bill: Volume I.

His work extended across genres, including action films such as The Bullet Train and Golgo 13: Assignment Kowloon, as well as science fiction projects like Message from Space.

Throughout his career, Chiba also worked as a fight choreographer and stunt performer. He later appeared in films including Battle Royale II and The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, continuing his involvement in the industry.

Mackenyu’s role in One Piece reflects a continuation of that martial arts tradition, combining technical training with on-screen performance.