AceShowbiz - Excitement is building for fans of Netflix's live-action adaptation as Cole Escola joins the cast of One Piece Season 3, taking on the pivotal role of Bon Clay, also known as Mr. 2 and Bentham. This significant casting confirms the continued challenges the Straw Hat Pirates will face from the formidable Baroque Works organization, a secretive group aiming for control over the Grand Line. While One Piece Season 2 introduces this syndicate, Escola's character for Season 3 signals the long-term impact of these antagonists.

Cole Escola, a non-binary actor known for their work in Big Mouth, brings a fresh interpretation to the fan-favorite character. In a notable departure from the original manga and anime's portrayal of Bentham as a drag character, the live-action series reimagines Bon Clay as a non-binary figure. This creative decision opens new narrative avenues while preserving the essence of the character's unique personality and abilities. Bon Clay possesses the powerful Devil Fruit ability to transform into an exact copy of anyone touched with their right hand, a skill proving both entertaining and strategically vital.

Escola's casting follows other high-profile additions to the Baroque Works lineup. Esteemed actors like David Dastmalchian portray Mr. 3, while Sophia Anne Caruso appears as Miss Goldenweek. Lera Abova joins as Miss All Sunday, known as the iconic Nico Robin, and Joe Manganiello has been cast as the formidable leader, Mr. 0, or Crocodile. The inclusion of Bon Clay completes a robust ensemble for this crucial arc, promising intense confrontations.

In the source material, Bentham debuts during the Little Garden Arc, initially forming unexpected camaraderie with the Straw Hat Pirates despite allegiance to Baroque Works. Their character arc is particularly dynamic, extending beyond initial appearances and playing a crucial role through the entire Alabasta Saga. However, the live-action adaptation introduces Bon Clay in Season 3, a notable shift since the Little Garden Arc is slated for Season 2. This timeline alteration suggests potential divergences in their storyline, keeping viewers eager to see how the narrative unfolds.

Escola's extensive background as a seasoned actor makes them an excellent choice for the complex role of Bon Clay. Their recent voice work in Boys Go to Jupiter and their award-winning performance and writing for the comedy play Oh Mary! highlight versatile comedic and dramatic talents. This blend of skills perfectly positions them to embody Bon Clay’s multifaceted nature, often oscillating between profound loyalty and hilarious antics. As One Piece Season 2 is still months away, fans await Escola's highly anticipated onscreen arrival, confident their reimagined portrayal will bring both familiarity and exciting new dimensions to the beloved character.