The highly anticipated Elbaph Arc of the One Piece TV anime is officially slated to begin on April 5, 2026, following the conclusion of the current Egghead Arc and a subsequent three-month hiatus. This new era for the Straw Hat Pirates will also mark a significant shift in the anime’s broadcasting schedule, moving to a seasonal release with approximately 26 episodes per year.
The Road to Elbaph: A Break After Egghead
Fans can expect the thrilling Egghead Arc to wrap up by the end of December 2025, with its final episode, 1155, expected to air on December 28, 2025. Following this, the One Piece anime will take a scheduled three-month break, allowing for production adjustments before the grand launch of the Elbaph Arc. This pause is intended to maintain the quality and pacing of the animation, aligning it more closely with the manga’s progression.
Anticipated Start of Episode 1156
The Elbaph Arc is expected to commence with One Piece Episode 1156. The April 5, 2026 date falls on a Sunday, which is the traditional airing day for the anime in Japan.
A New Era for the Anime: Seasonal Release
Beginning with the Elbaph Arc in 2026, the One Piece anime will transition to a seasonal broadcast model, releasing approximately 26 episodes annually. This strategic change aims to reduce the gap between the manga and anime, allowing for a more faithful adaptation of one manga chapter per episode. This move has been a topic of discussion among fans, with many hoping it will lead to enhanced animation quality and more consistent storytelling.
What to Expect from the Elbaph Arc
The Elbaph Arc is one of the most highly anticipated storylines in the One Piece saga, introducing viewers to the enigmatic kingdom of Elbaph, home of the Giants. This island has been mentioned multiple times throughout the series’ long history, building significant anticipation for its animated debut. The arc is expected to delve into the tragic history of Prince Loki and the Giants, promising a rich narrative with impactful character developments and grand-scale events.
As the Straw Hat Pirates conclude their adventures on the futuristic Egghead Island, the journey to the land of the Giants promises to be a pivotal and visually stunning chapter in Monkey D. Luffy’s quest to become the Pirate King.
