ALBAWABA - Several One Piece fans took to social media platforms including X (formerly known as Twitter) to complain about Netflix's casting of Lera Abova as Nico Robin for being Russian, as they claimed that the streaming service is "Supporting genocide" amid the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
Comments from users on X quickly swarmed posts covering the news as they judged Netflix for their choice of casting Lera Abova as Nico Robin in its live-action series. Here's what they had to say about the matter in question.
"Netflix supports genocide."
"So the character that is a survivor of genocide is played by an actress whose country is currently committing genocide? Tone deaf af."
One Piece fans attack Robin's actress Lera Abova for being a Russian, "Netflix supports genocide"
On the other hand, several others took to Abova's defense saying that she's the "perfect" cast for Robin due to her beauty and resemblance to the beloved One Piece character. Moreover, another user added that Abova doesn't seem to support Russia over its actions on Ukraine.
Even YouTubers and content creators like Asmongold took to her defense saying that he was "confused" as he felt like it was a good casting decision. Asmon's editor also added that the actress didn't make any remarks about the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Additionally, the actress moved from a small village in Siberia, Russia at 13 and now resides in Germany.
According to Fandom Wire, Eichiro Oda, the author behind One Piece's manga (Japanese comic) said that his cultural inspiration for Robin is Russian.
Season 2 of One Piece's Live-action will cover the Arabasata arc following Neftlix's casting of Abova as Robin and Joe Manganiello as Crocodile which was received very well by fans of the manga and anime.
Netflix also showcased a sneak peek of what Chopper looks like from the back but it's the face that fans are worried about!
Netflix's One Piece has been one of the few live-action adaptations of anime to be regarded highly by fans as it's usually very difficult to adapt from anime due to budget constraints and technology.
The series garnered positive reviews from fans and critics alike. It's currently sitting on 8.3/10 on IMDB and 85 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
