One Piece Episode 1153: Joyboy’s first appearance will change everything

Luffy as seen in anime
Luffy as seen in anime (Image credit: Toei Animation)

Joyboy in One Piece is one of the biggest, well-kept secrets by Eiichiro Oda. While this name has made its debut, no one actually knows who this character is, but it seems like the wait is finally over, as chances are that in Episode 1153 will finally make his first appearance of Joyboy. Fans are on the edge of their seats as the anime adaptation is about to visualize a legend that has been whispered through the seas for centuries.

Until now, all we know about Joyboy is that he is a mythical figure from the Void century. He is a man who is popularly known to be the first pirate in history. According to the lore, Joyboy in One Piece is responsible for forging ancient promises, creating ties with Fish-Man Island, and leaving behind the treasure that would later be called the “One Piece.”

Luffy, as seen in anime
Luffy, as seen in anime

Even if his character is not part of the current timeline, his influence has lingered across 900 years, shaping destinies, inspiring kingdoms, and fueling the will of D. Manga Readers already know that his essence is deeply connected to Monkey D. Luffy.

When Luffy awakened his Devil Fruit, the Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika, his heartbeat echoed with the Drums of Liberation, a sound so powerful that even Zunesha, the ancient elephant, declared that “Joyboy has returned.” That is why One Piece Episode 1153 is expected to finally visualize this connection, bridging the myth of Joyboy with the reality of Luffy’s awakening.


The scene everyone’s waiting for

A still from the anime (Image credit: Toei Animation)
A still from the anime (Image credit: Toei Animation)

According to fan discussions, One Piece Episode 1153 will feature not only Joyboy’s visual debut but also emotional interactions between Emeth, the Iron Giant, and Luffy. The scene reportedly shows Emeth recalling his past encounter with the original Joyboy, who had once sealed his Supreme King Haki within the Iron Giant centuries ago, an act of friendship and foresight.

Fans are also wondering if Toei Animation will reveal the cast member who will play the role of Joyboy. There is a popular theory ongoing that this character might share the same voice as Luffy, symbolizing the reincarnation of Joyboy’s spirit.

Others believe Toei will keep the voice mysterious, much like they’ve done with Imu, to preserve the suspense. Either way, the production studio has a delicate task ahead: to deliver an episode worthy of the legend.


Why One Piece Episode 1153 changes everything?

Luffy and his crew (Image credit: Toei Animation)
Luffy and his crew (Image credit: Toei Animation)

One Piece Episode 1153 is not an ordinary instalment as it marks a cosmic turning point in the story, the moment when history, destiny, and present collide. Joyboy’s appearance confirms one of the deepest truths of the One Piece world that the existence of the Great Kingdom is canon, and the start of the history of the Void Century will start to unfold.

The Egghead arc has already been loved by fans as each episode has been loved by fans, but now, with Joyboy’s reveal adds a divine weight to everything unfolding. The world government’s fear of this name, Imu’s hidden ties to the Void Century, and Vegapunk’s dying message all lead to Joyboy; that is why this episode is the key that connects them.


Final thoughts

Joyboy’s first on-screen appearance isn’t just a nostalgic flashback in One Piece; it’s the rebirth of an era. It may even hint at the beginning of the final saga’s endgame.

Whether Toei Animation shows us Joyboy’s full face, hear his laughter, or simply witness his shadow, one thing is certain: Episode 1153 will end up redefining what it means to be a fan of this legendary series and maybe the trajectory of the series altogether.

Edited by Nisarga Kakade