Mackenyu takes center stage for an exclusive Fusion Magazine cover feature, redefining what it means to embody a modern legend. As the live-action Zoro, he brings more than intensity to the role—he delivers discipline, depth, and a magnetic presence that lingers beyond the screen. In an intimate interview and striking cover shoot, Mackenyu opens up about the pressure of stepping into an iconic character, the dedication behind his craft, and the ambition fueling his global rise. Blending the sharp focus of a warrior with the quiet confidence of a rising star, this feature captures an actor not just breaking out—but breaking through.
FUSION MAGAZINE: The Mackenyu Issue is officially out now—grab your copy today.
When it comes to choosing a character, I always look for something I can fully commit to—something where I can give 150% and truly become that person.
For those who may not know you, could you describe a little about yourself?
Mackenyu: Right now, I like to live fully in the present. My focus is on my role as Zoro, and I always aim to give it everything I have—about 150% of my effort. If there’s anything I can say about myself, it’s that I try to be the hardest worker in the room.
Growing up as the son of the legendary Sonny Chiba, did you always feel drawn to acting, or did you imagine a different path?
Mackenyu: Growing up, I was very aware of my father’s career, but he never pushed me toward acting. It wasn’t something he directed me into. When I was younger, I actually admired a Japanese actor who inspired me, but before acting came into my life, I thought I might become a police officer.
What did you learn from seeing your father on screen, and how does that influence your work today?
Mackenyu: I don’t have many clear memories of my father on screen. As I’ve grown into acting myself, I often wish I could ask him questions about it. Unfortunately, I never had that chance, but I think about it a lot now.
When did you realize acting was the career path you wanted to pursue?
Mackenyu: I started acting in Japan when I was 17, and to be honest, I didn’t immediately enjoy it. But as I began taking on more meaningful and challenging roles, I started to find real passion in it. What truly changed everything for me was seeing audiences connect with my performances. That connection is what made me realize acting wasn’t just something I did—it was something I wanted to dedicate myself to. My bond with the fans is what makes acting so important to me.
You’ve played such a wide range of roles, from intense action heroes to emotionally complex characters. What usually draws you to a role, and how do you decide if it’s the right fit for you?
Mackenyu: As a martial artist, I naturally feel drawn to action roles. But when it comes to choosing a character, I always look for something I can fully commit to—something where I can give 150% and truly become that person. If I feel the urge to push myself and bring the role to life in a deeper way, then I know it’s the right fit for me.
Many international fans discovered you through One Piece as Zoro. How did stepping into such a beloved global franchise impact you personally and professionally?
Mackenyu: At first, I felt relieved that fans accepted the live-action adaptation. I’m a huge fan of the manga myself, and Zoro has always been my favorite character, so my main goal was simply to do him justice. After the release, hearing people around the world call me “Zoro” was surreal. I feel incredibly honored to portray such an iconic character and to represent Oda’s work, which I deeply respect. Professionally, it’s pushed me even further—I want to make season 2 even better than season 1. I’ll always give everything I have to make the fans proud.
To read the full exclusive story, get the latest issue of the magazine featuring Mackenyu.
