Netflix has announced that actor Sendhil Ramamurthy will take on the role of Nefertari Cobra, the King of Alabasta and father to Princess Vivi, in the highly anticipated second season of its One Piece live-action adaptation.
The streaming giant shared the news on Wednesday with a statement on Instagram: “In the heart of The Desert Kingdom of Alabasta, where rebellion stirs and secrets are buried, stands a King like no other. Introducing Nefertari Cobra, the pillar of integrity in a kingdom at crossroads.” Accompanying this announcement was a collage featuring Ramamurthy alongside an illustration of his character from the anime series.
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Ramamurthy, widely recognized for his portrayal of Devi’s late father in Netflix’s popular teen drama Never Have I Ever, continues to expand his impressive repertoire.
In the original manga by Eiichiro Oda and its anime adaptation, Nefertari Cobra is depicted as a wise and noble ruler who values the welfare of his citizens above all else. Descended from one of the Twenty Kings who founded the World Government, Cobra made the conscious choice to remain in Alabasta, driven by a profound sense of duty and love for his kingdom, rather than relocating to the prestigious Mariejois.
Anticipation is building for more casting announcements, with fans eagerly awaiting the reveal of the actors for Nico Robin and Princess Vivi, expected on August 23. Production for Season 2 is currently underway in Cape Town, South Africa, now entering its second month. This new season will explore several beloved arcs from the series, including Loguetown, Reverse Mountain (Twin Cape), Whiskey Peak, Little Garden, and Drum Island.
One Piece follows the adventurous Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate who embarks on a daring voyage across the Grand Line with his eclectic crew, all in pursuit of the legendary treasure known as the One Piece. Luffy’s journey is not just about finding treasure but also about achieving true freedom. Along the way, he confronts powerful adversaries, forms deep friendships, and unveils long-hidden secrets of the world.
With the addition of Ramamurthy as King Cobra, the upcoming season promises to deepen the world-building and emotional stakes, captivating both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike.
