For anime fans born in the 80s and 90s, the term “The Big Three” is more than just a title, it represents a whole world of memories. After more than a decade apart, 2026 marks a historic moment as the three legendary series: One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach, will all return to the small screen at the same time. This could be the final chance to see this iconic trio united before closing a remarkable era.
The fall of an empire (2012 – 2017)
“The Big Three” is an unofficial title for the three biggest shonen series of the 2000s. Their popularity was so immense that no sequel or successor has fully replaced their status. However, this alliance began to crack in 2012 when Bleach’s anime unexpectedly ended before adapting the manga’s final chapters, leaving fans with deep regret.
Then in 2017, Naruto: Shippuden also came to an end. Although Boruto was launched to continue the legacy, it has yet to capture the same spirit and quality that the original series held. Since then, only One Piece has persevered, carrying the Big Three title alone for many years.
2026: A historic reunion after 14 years
It has been 14 years since the last time all three aired together in 2012. In 2026, fate brings them back at the same time.
1. One Piece: Launching the Elbaph Arc (April 2026)
After the thrilling Egghead arc concluded at episode 1156, One Piece officially entered a seasonal anime format. Instead of airing weekly all year, the show will take a six-month break annually to ensure top-quality animation. The Straw Hat crew is set to arrive on the island of giants, Elbaph, in April 2026. This arc is one of the most anticipated in the series’ history, promising epic battles on a mythic scale.
2. Bleach: The Fiery Finale of the Thousand-Year Blood War (July 2026)
Following its spectacular return in 2022, Bleach has proven its top-tier animation quality. The fourth season titled “The Calamity” is scheduled for July 2026. This marks the final chapter of the epic war between the Shinigami and Quincy. By cutting all filler episodes and speeding up the pace, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War part 4 is set to be a major summer hit.
3. Naruto: Surprise Return with Four Special Episodes (Late 2026)
The biggest shock is Naruto’s comeback. Originally planned for 2023, four special episodes celebrating the 20th anniversary were indefinitely delayed due to quality concerns. Recently, Studio Pierrot confirmed these episodes are now complete and will air at the end of 2026. Fans will once again see young Naruto in a fresh, sharper, and more stunning presentation.
Is this the final chapter for a legend?
While this reunion excites fans worldwide, many experts believe it could be the last time all three appear together.
Bleach will officially conclude after The Calamity arc. Naruto’s only confirmed project is these four special episodes (aside from potential Boruto returns). Only One Piece still has a long journey ahead.
The Big Three might disband again by the end of 2026, but a new hope emerges. With WIT Studio working on a One Piece remake, fans are calling for similar treatments for Naruto and Bleach.
A remake without filler, with modern graphics and tighter pacing, is exactly what Naruto (which ended 10 years ago) and the early Bleach episodes (which feel outdated since 2012) need. If this happens, the Big Three won’t just reunite for one year but could dominate the anime world for another decade.