Among all the sad stories in One Piece, here are 5 arguably the most tear-jerking moments to remember as we bid adieu to 2024!

SUMMARY

Despite being set in a crazy fantasy world with over-the-top powers, One Piece got some truly touching stories to tell.
The emotional rollercoaster from Luffy’s devastating loss of Ace to Sanji’s crushing despair, left many of us heartbroken.
In fact, the sad goodbye of Going Merry and Nami’s heart-wrenching past were just equally emotional as the other ones.

One Piece is more than just a series, it’s an emotional rollercoaster for many of us. No matter how fantastical and unrealistic the setting seems, the struggles, triumphs, and relationships between the characters can often turn out to be hauntingly relatable for the viewers.

Monkey D. Luffy from One Piece | Credits: Toei Animation

Whether you are a pro One Piece fan or new to this world, the sheer impact of some of those heart-wrenching moments will surely mesmerize you, and bring your tears out. While the manga and anime are still going on strong, as 2024 is about to end, it would be a nice time to recollect what made us love this series so much to begin with.

1When Ace sacrificed his life to save his little brother!

The D3ath of Ace | Credits: Toei Animation

There was this time when even the most cheerful Luffy was literally left in shambles as he lost Ace, his d3ar brother, who was also his closest friend. It was a goodbye no one ever wanted to see, particularly Luffy. The aftermath was so intense for Luffy, that we witnessed him scream out in Marineford with uncontrollable grief. And from then on, Luffy had never been the same again.

Now he knows he has to face his brutal pirate life, where defeat and sacrifice would be a sure thing. Ace’s d3ath made Luffy realize the value of his friendships, and how far he could go to protect them. The pain of losing Ace still lingers, propelling Luffy forward toward his unyielding aim at being the Pirate King. Although the wound might not fully heal, he pursues his dreams despite the cost.

2Sanji’s search for acceptance was lost to despair!

Sanji | Credits: Toei Animation

The poor fellow already had a very rough time with his family, particularly with his father Judge, who constantly made him feel he wasn’t good enough. Sanji had always sought someone to love and accept him for what he was, including all of his flaws. His constant search for acceptance was lost to despair, and he even questioned himself if ever he would find his right place.

But his All Blue dreams remained alive, now fueled by a deeper desire to find people who truly care. Although he’s got his crew now, the Straw Hats, who’ve got his back, Sanji’s still searching for that family bond that he longed for since his childhood. His determination is still holding onto hope, and he surely isn’t giving up anytime soon on his search for true love and acceptance.

3Goodbye, Going Merry!

Farewell to Going Merry | Credits: Toei Animation

More than just a ship, Going Merry was the first true home of the Straw Hat Crew. After all, it was Kaya who gifted the ship to Luffy and the team. Slowly but surely, fans also became accustomed to the ship’s creaky wooden decks and makeshift bedrooms, along with the crew.

How could they forget all those epic battles, the silly squabbles, and the heartwarming moments sharing with the Going Merry? So naturally, saying goodbye to Going Merry was insanely gut-wrenching.

After surviving countless storms, her (Going Merry) last voyage ended in a Viking funeral, getting turned into ashes with engulfing fire. Fans sobbed alongside the crew as they bid their goodbyes to the Crew’s truly faithful companion. Her spirit still inspires the Straw Hats, reminding them of where they came from and the unforgettable journeys they shared.

4Brook did not deserve this!

Crying Brook | Credits: Toei Animation

Brook’s backstory was unimaginably sad! Imagine watching all your loved ones die right in front of you, but you’re powerless to even blink. That is basically what Brooks experienced, which would be devastating enough by any stretch of the imagination. And even after that, things only went worse for Brooks. He came back to life only to find himself stuck sailing the seas with the skeletons of his former crewmates.

Can you even imagine the loneliness and guilt? It’s like being haunted by your own past while navigating the world alone surrounded by constant reminders of what he lost. Brook’s sufferings also add meaning to his pirate spirit and how close he is to his friends such as the Straw Hats. Thankfully, even after all that, there was always something/someone that helped him move forward.

5Nami’s painful past was ruthless!

Sad Nami | Credits: Toei Animation

Although Nami was initially introduced as an ordinary thief, she had hidden one of the darkest secrets in One Piece. The iconic tattoo on her body was not just an art but a branding by the ruthless Arlong Crew, who enslaved her! The time when the Arlong pirates invaded her village and forced each and every one to servitude was certainly a showcase of true horror.

Although Nami’s mapmaking sk!lls saved her village, the emotional scars lingered strong. The moment when she stabbed her tattoo from sheer hatred and anger will always be remembered among the viewers. For her, it was the beginning of breaking free from that trauma and rejecting the claims of Arlong. In fact, Nami’s present also is influenced by that painful past, and many fans still love her for that.