One Piece’s most emotional backstory may never have been planned at all (and it changed everything)

One Piece has always had its fair share of emotional backstories, but perhaps the most touching wasn't even meant to be there at all. Eiichiro Oda revealed that Senor Pink’s tragic backstory, from the Donquixote Pirates, was never planned to be in the manga.

It was entirely because of a reaction from one of Oda's editors that he was convinced to include it in the story. The addition changed everything, as the chapter ended up resonating with fans and propelled Pink into one of the most unexpectedly beloved characters in the series.

Disclaimer: The article reflects the writer's opinion and includes spoilers from the One Piece manga.

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How Senor Pink's tragic backstory was a last-minute decision in One Piece, explored

Oda did not intend to include Senor Pink's story (Image via Toei Animation)

Senor Pink’s tragic past is considered one of the most touching moments in One Piece, but it was never something Eiichiro Oda initially planned. Instead, it almost came about by accident and was more the result of an impulsive decision, showing how even last-minute choices can influence how fans perceive a character.

Oda explained that Pink's backstory came about when he casually mentioned it during a meeting with his editor. The editor was so moved by Oda's storytelling that Oda knew the story could resonate with readers in the same way, so he decided to include it in the manga on the spot.

When it was finally released, Senor Pink's backstory revealed a heartache that many wouldn’t have expected from the comedic character. Beneath the absurd image of a grown man wearing a bonnet and baby clothes was a story of profound loss. His wife, the love of his life, became cold and distant after discovering his true identity as a pirate.

Senor Pink's past was revealed during his fight with Franky (Image via Toei Animation)

The only time she reacted was when Pink wore the costume of their deceased child, a heartbreaking fact that explained why he never took off the costume. An actor who had been playing for comic relief was instantly transformed into one of the most tragic characters in the show.

What makes this moment so significant is how spontaneous it was. Oda had every chance to make Senor Pink a strange, villainous character, but when he added the backstory, everything about how fans saw him changed.

Senor Pink loses his wife's trust (Image via Toei Animation)

The emotional importance of his clothing changed his look from funny to sorrowful. This shifted what was once lighthearted relief into something iconic about grief and commitment. This change in attitude also testified to one of Oda's greatest attributes as a writer: his talent for humanizing even the most unexpected characters.

Fans' response showed that the gamble was successful. Instead of being irrelevant and disposed of after his fight with Franky, Senor Pink became memorable for another reason: his past and history are central to his character, and his backstory makes him stand out among all the other backstories in One Piece.

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Related links:

• One Piece chapter 1158 confirms Oda's release schedule for early September 2025
• A hidden message from Oda could reveal why Luffy’s victory won’t come from strength alone in One Piece
• One Piece may be setting up Zoro’s most personal fight yet (and it won’t be Mihawk)