One of One Piece’s greatest strengths lies in its enormous and unforgettable cast. While the Straw Hat Pirates remain the heart of the series, countless side characters have left lasting impressions, sometimes even overshadowing the main crew. Whether through quirky personalities, tragic backstories, or sheer charisma, these supporting figures prove that Eiichiro Oda excels at creating depth far beyond the protagonist.
Here are 10 One Piece side characters who quietly (or not so quietly) steal every scene.
10. Ulti – The Wild Card of the Tobi Roppo
Introduced in Wano, Ulti is loud, brash, and unpredictable. She can shift from trying to act refined to flying into rage-filled headbutts in seconds. Her raw personality and explosive fighting style ensure that she commands attention, even among a crowded cast of Beast Pirates.
9. Perona – From Diva to Quirky Ally
Initially an eccentric villain in Thriller Bark, Perona later became an unlikely ally after living alongside Zoro and Mihawk during the time skip. Her gothic look, selfish attitude, and hilarious dynamic with Usopp make her unforgettable. Her Horo Horo no Mi powers—capable of crippling even strong fighters with depression—cement her as a scene-stealer.
8. Dr. Kureha – The Fiery 141-Year-Old Doctor
At 141 years old, Dr. Kureha is as sharp-tongued as she is wise. Though her tough love terrifies the people of Drum Island, her compassion shines in her maternal bond with Chopper. Despite limited screen time, she left such an impression that even Luffy asked her to join the crew.
7. Marco the Phoenix – Calm Amid Chaos
Marco’s Mythical Zoan fruit allows him to heal, fly, and wield regenerative blue flames, making him one of the coolest fighters in the series. His fiery determination during Marineford and composed loyalty in Wano highlight his dual nature, ensuring that fans are always drawn to his presence.
6. Señor Pink – A Joke Turned Tragedy
At first glance, Señor Pink’s baby costume seemed ridiculous. But once his heartbreaking backstory was revealed, laughter turned into tears. His tale of love and loss transformed him from comic relief into one of the most unexpectedly emotional characters in One Piece.
5. Vinsmoke Reiju – Sanji’s Brightest Light
Sanji’s sister Reiju represents kindness in an otherwise cruel family. Her unconditional support for Sanji, alongside her shocking scene of saving Luffy by sucking poison from his body, made her an instant fan favorite during the Whole Cake Island arc.
4. Kyros – The Hero Who Needed No Recognition
As both a toy and a man, Kyros embodied resilience and sacrifice. Forgotten by the world but determined to protect his daughter Rebecca and stand against Doflamingo, Kyros’ story in Dressrosa is one of One Piece’s most moving side narratives.
3. Wyper – The Fierce Shandian Warrior
In Skypiea, Wyper stood out as a character who could rival even the Straw Hats in intensity. His pride, loyalty, and willingness to risk everything for his people—going so far as to nearly kill Enel with a Reject Dial—made him one of the most memorable arc-focused characters.
2. Bartolomeo – The Straw Hats’ Biggest Fanboy
Loud, over-the-top, and unapologetically obsessed with Luffy, Bartolomeo represents every One Piece fan inside the story. His fangirling antics in Dressrosa, combined with his surprising strength and barrier fruit powers, make him both hilarious and endearing.
1. Monkey D. Dragon – The Revolutionary Enigma
Though he has appeared sparingly, every moment with Monkey D. Dragon shakes the fandom. Revealed as Luffy’s father and the leader of the Revolutionary Army, Dragon embodies mystery and quiet power. Each rare appearance reminds fans that the world is heading toward its final, revolutionary upheaval.
Conclusion
While Luffy and the Straw Hats drive the story, it’s the side characters who often leave fans with the most unforgettable moments. From comedic relief to tragic warriors to enigmatic leaders, these figures prove that One Piece is more than just a pirate adventure—it’s a world where even brief appearances can echo for years.
