The Straw Hats just keep sailing forward — this time straight into award season!
The long-running anime phenomenon One Piece has once again proven its legendary status in the anime world with major nominations at this year’s Crunchyroll Anime Awards. Celebrated for its dynamic storytelling, evolving animation, and unforgettable characters, One Piece continues to capture the hearts of fans old and new — and the industry is taking notice.
This year, One Piece was nominated for Best Continuing Series, a category that honors long-standing shows that manage to maintain exceptional quality season after season. Considering the emotional weight and stunning visual direction of the Wano arc — and now the dazzling transition into Egghead — it’s no surprise that One Piece remains at the top of the game.
But the spotlight doesn’t stop there. Director Megumi Ishitani also earned a well-deserved nomination for Best Director, thanks to her visionary work that elevated episodes like 1015 (“Straw Hat Luffy – The Man Who Will Become the Pirate King”) into instant classics. Her cinematic eye, attention to detail, and emotional storytelling brought an already beloved series into an entirely new tier of artistic excellence.
Ishitani’s work has been widely praised by the fanbase, with many calling her episodes some of the best in anime history. Her ability to blend fluid action, raw emotion, and innovative animation techniques is helping redefine what a shonen series can look and feel like.
The One Piece community has rallied behind these nominations, with fans flooding social media to celebrate and encourage voting. With over two decades of history, One Piece has seen many arcs and milestones — but this latest recognition is a testament to the series’ ongoing evolution and its undying impact on the anime landscape.
If you’re a longtime fan or someone just catching up, this is the perfect time to show support. Head over to the Crunchyroll Anime Awards website and cast your votes — because Luffy and the crew never stop dreaming big, and now they’re aiming for the gold.
