“You know how sons are”: Despite Being a Martial Arts Legend, One Piece’s Mackenyu Believed His Father Did Not Teach Him Enough
Ava Arnold
Updated on April 03, 2026
Mackenyu stars as the protagonist of the Knights of the Zodiac, Seiya, who must choose between his destiny to protect a reincarnated goddess, Sienna, or continue to search for his abducted sister. He was recently interviewed regarding this movie where he was asked about his father, the well-known Japanese actor Sonny Chiba.
The series is a live-action adaptation of the famous Saint Seiya manga and the anime series. The movie traces the story of Seiya, who got his sister snatched away from him at a young age. His search for his sibling continues when he suddenly encounters a strange power within himself.
What was Mackenyu’s take on Knights of the Zodiac?
Mackenyu recently had an interview with the Screen Rant where he was asked about his opinions on Knights of the Zodiac, to which he replied,
“This is a Japanese film in live action. It’s groundbreaking. They’ve never done this before. Well, technically they have but not with a Japanese American lead. It doesn’t happen very often. I’m definitely excited for that. I love the visual effects. It’s just amazing. I love how it looks. I’ve watched it three times already and I love it. So I hope people love it too.”
He was further asked about his father, who was a talented actor, and what he learned from him. Mackenyu shared how he would’ve appreciated it if his father taught him more. He said, “I think there’s more he should have taught me, but I would have not listened to him at all anyway. You know how sons are.” He also shared how much he respects his father, the first man to “actually step out of Japan and challenge himself in Hollywood.”
What is Knights of the Zodiac about?
Knights of the Zodiac has brought the story of Saint Seiya to the big screens. It is being produced by Toei Animation and is based on the international anime sensation. The story revolves around Seiya, a rock-headed teenager who is being cast by Mackenyu. He indulges in fights to earn cash and spends his time searching for his abducted sister. In a specific eventful fight, Seiya unlocks a mysterious power within himself and finds himself venturing into a world of Saints, facing wars, ancient magical training, and a reincarnated goddess who needs his protection. He needs to accept his destiny to survive and sacrifice everything to become the Knights of the Zodiac.
