Eiichiro Oda Promises To End One Piece on His Terms

“I’ll Put an End to One Piece When the Time Has Come”

In a revealing statement from 2018, Eiichiro Oda made it clear that the fate of One Piece rests entirely in his hands. “I’ll put an end to One Piece when the time has come no matter what Shueisha asks me to prolong the series,” Oda asserted. This powerful declaration highlights Oda’s commitment to staying true to his vision for the series, regardless of external pressures from his publisher.

The Power of Creative Control

Oda’s assertion that “It totally depends on my own decision” speaks volumes about his creative independence. While many creators might bend to the demands of publishers or commercial interests, Oda has remained steadfast in his dedication to delivering a conclusion that aligns with his original plan for One Piece. This resolute stance ensures that the ending of One Piece will be a reflection of his artistic integrity and the journey he set out to complete from the very beginning.

Lessons from Dragon Ball and Yu Yu Hakusho

Oda’s determination is further emphasized by the history of other popular series such as Dragon Ball and Yu Yu Hakusho, which were prolonged contrary to their authors’ intentions due to their immense popularity. Torishima, former editor of Dragon Ball, has publicly expressed his regret over extending the series beyond its natural conclusion. These examples highlight the challenges that come with maintaining artistic integrity in the face of commercial success, making Oda’s commitment to ending One Piece on his terms all the more admirable.

What This Means for the Future of One Piece

Oda’s statement reassures fans that the conclusion of One Piece will not be a rushed or forced affair. Instead, it will come when Oda feels the story has reached its natural end. This approach not only reflects Oda’s respect for his creation but also promises a satisfying resolution for the millions of readers who have followed the adventures of Luffy and his crew for so long.