One Piece Anime Goes on Hiatus Until 2027 After September 27 Episode
The One Piece anime will air its final episode of 2026 on September 27, episode 1180, before taking a long break. Toei Animation shifted the series to a seasonal format in 2025, reducing output to about 26 episodes per year. The show is not expected to return until 2027.
The shift to seasonal production marks a major structural change for the long-running series, which previously aired nearly every week. The 2026 broadcast window began in April with the Elbaf arc, and the upcoming episode 1180 will conclude this batch. The cliffhanger involves Imu's arrival on Elbaf and the use of a power called Domi Reversi.
The decision stems from production strain, as the weekly format previously led to quality dips in arcs like Punk Hazard and Dressrosa, though quality improved from Wano onward. With 26 episodes per year, the series now operates in half-year blocks, with the next block slated for spring 2027.
The extended hiatus could test the patience of dedicated fans, especially with a major cliffhanger unresolved. However, the seasonal model may lead to higher animation quality and better staff conditions, potentially strengthening the series' long-term reputation. Streaming platforms and merchandise sales could see temporary dips during the break, but the anticipation for the 2027 return may sustain interest. This shift reflects a broader industry trend toward seasonal releases for long-running shonen titles.