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Baroque Works is poised to play a huge role in the next installment of Netflix’s show of One Piece, though the major clash won’t take place until season 3, and a adored, fan-favorite member has recently been selected.

Netflix announced Tuesday that Cole Escola is now part of the One Piece season 3 cast and will portray Bon Clay. The role can use their power to morph into an exact copy of any individual they’ve laid a hand on with their dominant hand. Escola, who is identifies as non-binary and goes by they/them, will play a rendition of that character re-envisioned as gender non-binary, as opposed to as a drag performer, in the real-life adaptation, as in the original manga and cartoon version.

Escola joins multiple recently announced actors tasked with bringing the organization to life, including leader the main antagonist, portrayed by the well-known actor, a talented actress as a key member, and Sendhil Ramamurthy, who also joins the ensemble as the ruler of Alabasta.

Though this character is a key figure of Baroque Works, the individual won’t appear until One Piece the upcoming installment. Considering season 2 expected to adapt the Little Garden storyline, this marks a significant shift in the placement of Bon Clay’s introduction, one that could indicate further changes to the plot development.

Their mix of precise humor and deep sensitivity makes them a standout choice for the part. Along with their latest vocal work in the youth-focused cartoon movie Boys Go to Jupiter, they earned widespread acclaim and numerous honors for writing and starring in the hit comedy play Oh Mary!, showcasing the versatility they’ll bring to one of One Piece’s highly regarded roles.

The streaming service’s real-life One Piece show is due to premiere for its second season on March 10, 2026.