One Piece Season 2 first look reveals a Game of Thrones star joining the crew - here's everything to know

Netflix is gearing up for One Piece Season 2, and fans already have reasons to be excited.

The new season, titled Into the Grand Line is set to premiere in 2026. Netflix has started teasing its vibrant locations and key characters, giving viewers a taste of the adventures ahead.

Recent photos shared with Entertainment Weekly show Monkey D. Luffy, the massive whale Laboon, and a multiskilled character, Crocus (Clive Russell). In one photo, Crocus lounges in a red shirt, round glasses perched on his nose, reading a newspaper with a gentle smile.

Fans of Game of Thrones might recognize Russell. He played Ser Bryden Blackfish Tully in HBO's fantasy series. Brynden was Hoster's younger brother and Catelyn Stark's uncle. Brynden was known for defying family expectations, and his refusal to marry ruined his relations with Hoster Tully.

Keep reading to know more.

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One Piece Season 2 star Clive Russell played Brynden Tully in Game of Thrones

Russell is no stranger to epic fantasy series. He played Ser Brynden Blackfish Tully in HBO's Game of Thrones. As Hoster Tully's younger brother, Brynden earned the nickname for defying family expectations, refusing to marry, and acting according to his own code. He was the uncle of Catelyn, Edmure, and Lysa.

Brynden earned respect on the battlefield, serving as Robb Stark's top commander during the War of Five Kings. He defended Riverrun with all his might. He was the kind of leader who stood firm, though ahead, and never compromised on what he believed.

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Meet Crocus from One Piece Season 2

Crocus isn't just a caretaker for Laboon or a lighthouse keeper. He's the whale's guide and the former Roger Pirates' doctor. He balances wisdom with human, calm with action. Crocus keeps the crew safe and offers guidance through the Grand Line's chaos. Russell brings that mix of charm to the character. You'll see him in quiet, pivotal moments that shape the story. He grounds the adventure while letting Luffy and the crew shine.

In a snippet, Russell shows us around the sets and explains his character Crocus' connection to Laboon.

"When I first met Laboon, it was a baby whale. Laboon is a positive character in his life, and yet, what we are looking at around here is like something with enormous power and extraordinarily vulnerable. So maybe that's the Crocus connection. His aloneness is a kind of vulnerability. It's very touching being here."

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Beyond Game of Thrones and One Piece Season 2: Clive Russell's career and notable projects

Russell's career spans decades. From Chief Inspector Frederick to Lord Lovat, he has proven his versatility across TV, film, and stage. He embodies history, drama, and fantasy with equal skill. Playing Crocus is a natural fit. He brings gravitas, humor, and presence to the role. His involvement signals that One Piece Season 2 will blend spectacle with strong performances.

Some of his notable works include Outlander, Sherlock Holmes, The Wolfman, King Arthur, Neverwhere, The Sandman, Dept. Q, Casualty, to name a few. Some of his upcoming works include Scenes from a Broken Past, May-Day!, and Axis of Life.

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Why does this matter for fans?

Russell's joining the cast raises expectations and thrill. Crocus adds wisdom, warmth, and comic relief to Straw Hat's adventures. Netflix images hint at vast locations and epic journeys. Crocus anchors the story, guiding Luffy and the crew. One Piece Season 2 is all set to release in 2026. For fans of both Game of Thrones and One Piece, this is a standout casting moment.

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