Live-Action ONE PIECE's Chopper Is CUTER Than Grogu

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2 days ago

Yes. We've said it. And we'll say it again. Live-action One Piece's Chopper is CUTER than Grogu a.k.a. Baby Yoda, and we can't wait to see him in action. Ever since Netflix's live-action series began, One Piece fans have eagerly awaited the arrival of a beloved member of the Straw Hat Pirates. And incidentally, the most complicated member to bring to life in live-action. But happily, all that anticipation won't have to be for naught. Because we have our first look at the live-action version of Tony Tony Chopper, who serves as the Straw Hat Pirates (much-needed) doctor. And thankfully, he is SPOT on. Let's take a closer look.
Netflix has teased One Piece's Chopper before, but we've never seen him like this. Incredibly, Netflix took the time to create a whole introduction for its live-action Chopper, not merely showing us footage from season two, but bringing Chopper directly into the spotlight in a special featurette. And it is VERY effective. The reindeer creature completely avoids the uncanny valley, stealing our hearts immediately with his big eyes, sweet smile, happy dance, and shy mannerisms. What a cutie! You can take a look at our Chopper first-look below, complete with Luffy's cheerful support in the background.
We know we love Netflix's live-action Chopper, but what about the person whose opinion matters most? Well, One Piece's creator Eiichiro Oda has wholeheartedly signed off on this version of Chopper. Oda writes, 'The live-action ONE PIECE! The key to Season 2 is, of course, our weird talking animal. After extensive trial and refinement by the entire team, the day has come to finally unveil him!! From his form and furs to his expressions and voice, and even lighting and gravity simulation a world-class team brought their skills together in bringing Tony Tony Chopper to life, and now he's ready to be introduced to the world!! Check him out!!'
We're glad to see Oda is excited and on board!
But who gives Chopper his cute voice and captivating mannerisms? Mikaela Hoover plays Chopper on Netflix's live-action One Piece season two. She will soon be a part of the DCU when Superman releases this summer. Mikaela Hoover not only voices Tony Tony Chopper, but she also performed facial capture for the character.
Hoover shares, 'What excited me about playing Chopper is the tug of war between his standoffishness and his huge heart. He tries so hard to hide his emotions and put on a tough exterior, but underneath, he's a big softy, and his love can't help but come out.'
She adds, 'I believe there is a little Chopper in all of us. We all want to be loved and accepted. We go to great lengths to keep the people that we love safe. There's a purity to his nature that reminds us of what's good in the world.'
We are melting!
Well, we know Tony Tony Chopper is cute. Yes, cuter than Grogu. But who is Chopper on One Piece? Netflix shares, 'A blue-nosed reindeer-boy hybrid, Chopper is as smart as he is cute. With the ability to treat various illnesses, he aims to travel the world and accomplish his dream of curing any disease, which would certainly come in handy for our Straw Hat pirates. He's also fiercely loyal, loves compliments (but doesn't want you to know it), and wears his heart on his sleeve. But don't let his sweet face fool you. This fan-favorite character is a lot tougher than he looks. And whatever you do, don't call him a raccoon! He's a reindeer!' We bet Guardians of the Galaxy's Rocket Raccoon would just LOVE to meet Chopper. Especially given his dislike of being called a raccoon.
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And yes, Tony Tony Chopper is a reindeer. A reindeer who happened to swallow the Human-Human Fruit, a Zoan-type Devil Fruit that lets its user become a human hybrid at will. This Devil Fruit also gave Chopper the ability to speak. He was actually named Tony Tony Chopper because he's a 'tonakai,' a reindeer in Japanese, and his antlers seem like they could chop down trees.
Chopper's live-action One Piece arrival is a long time in the making. Chopper was introduced One Piece's manga, in its 134th chapter (volume 15, issued in 2000). He first appeared in Episode 81 of the One Piece anime, which aired in 2001. And now, over 20 years later, Chopper will make his debut on Netflix's One Piece live-action season two.
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Our first look at Chopper wasn't just cute, it was informative. Chopper let us know that One Piece season two would release in 2026. Season one is now available to stream in full on Netflix.