Despite being considered a masterpiece in various respects, theOne Piecemanga has generally avoided romance as much as possible throughout its run. Eiichiro Oda, the creator of this beloved series, has admitted on several occasions that he is not the best when it comes to creating compelling romances, preferring to focus on more typical Shōnen tropes.
Nonetheless, these declarations have done little to stop fans from imaginingwhich endgame couple will be selected forOne Piece, with Nami and Hancock among the most popular choices for Luffy. Lamentably for fans, Oda might have already revealed who the captain will end up with, and the answer might be disappointing for many fans.
Luffy’s Future Has Already Been Decided
Oda Cannot Imagine the Straw Hat Having a Relationship
In 2009, while answering fan-submitted questions for the SBS segment of theOne Piecemanga, Oda was asked about Nami’s feelings. The author explained that, according to his plans for the series, there would not be any kind of romance amongthe members Straw Hat crew. The manga was primarily for boys, who typically do not have as much interest in romance.
One Piece is basically a Shōnen manga, manga for boys, so romance isn’t depicted.
- Eiichiro Oda.
Oda went as far as to claim that the series would not depict these kinds of stories, once again explaining that he wanted to focus on Shōnen tropes and ideas. As such, many fans have concluded that the author never intended for Luffy to have a partner. Furthermore, the Straw Hat Captain has never shown interest in these topics.
Seeing as theseries’ epic finale is rapidly approaching, with the Egghead and Elbaph arcs marking the beginning of the final saga, it is likely that Luffy will indeed not find a partner. Between battling the World Government, defeating the remaining powerful pirate crews in the world, and reaching Laugh Tale, the story might not develop any romantic subplots.
Have Oda’s Views Changed?
Recent Interactions Suggest This Is Not the Case
As the story of theOne Piecemanga has progressed, many fans have theorized that Oda’s views on romance might have changed over time. Even though not many couples have been introduced, the series has touched upon these topics more frequently than at its beginning. Many fans have taken these shifts in the story as confirmation that Luffy could still find a partner.
Lamentably, it seems like Oda’s idea of romance not being a part of the main story of theOne Piecemanga is still present. While working on the Netflix adaptation of his series, consideredone of the best live-action anime-inspired shows, the author made it clear that no romantic sub-plots should be added to the story.
While not direct confirmation, this decision suggests that Oda still does not feel like adding romance would improve his series. As disappointing as it might be for fans, it is highly likely that Luffy’s journey to becoming the King of the Pirates will end without him having found a significant other.
