By Paul Salfen, Christine Thompson for AMFM Magazine
With ONE PIECE: Into the Grand Line now streaming on Netflix (premiering March 10, 2026), the Straw Hat Pirates’ journey into the treacherous Grand Line introduces fans to unforgettable new allies and adversaries. Among the most anticipated additions is Nefertari Vivi (aka Miss Wednesday), the courageous princess of Alabasta, portrayed by Charithra Chandran—best known for her breakout role as Edwina Sharma in Bridgerton.
Announced in August 2024, Chandran’s casting as the iconic character drew immediate excitement from many, though it also sparked some online backlash from fans fixated on appearance details. Despite the noise, Chandran has embraced the role with grace and enthusiasm, and creator Eiichiro Oda personally selected her, affirming her perfect fit for Vivi’s spirit of bravery, loyalty, and growth.
In this heartfelt one-on-one interview with AMFM Magazine’s Paul Salfen, Chandran opens up about the magic of joining the massive pirate adventure, her surreal “dreams come true” moments on set in South Africa, and the deeper messages she hopes audiences take from her character.
The conversation begins with the joy of in-person connection after so many Zoom calls. “It’s great… we got human interaction. I’m so used to Zoom,” Chandran laughs. Salfen notes the fun pirate vibe, and she agrees: “A pirate’s life is a fun life, right?” But she quickly adds that set life isn’t always glamorous—yet this production stands out. “Literally a few weeks ago on set, I had this kind of out-of-body experience… I’m on the tip of Africa, filming this massive pirate show that’s going to be seen by millions… and I have the prettiest wig on earth. Like, what’s not to love? It’s literally all my dreams come true.”
Chandran shares how inspiring it is to connect with young fans, including kids thrilled by her brief voice role in the original One Piece anime. When asked for advice to aspiring actors, she passes on wisdom from a friend: “Take the win… acknowledge the little wins… an ugly win, a last-minute win, is still a win.” She emphasizes celebration in a tough industry: “In this world, celebration is really important.”
Her pre-scene ritual? A hype song: “Diva by Beyoncé, but the Homecoming version from Coachella. The Beyhive will know.” Salfen, with co-host Drew Pearson (the legendary Dallas Cowboys receiver), steers toward “Hail Mary” career moments. Chandran reveals hers: leaving a corporate job during COVID to pursue acting full-time. “Covid gave me the time to have a moment of introspection… What if I actually followed my dreams? And so I just went for it.” She credits hard work but humbly notes luck and privilege play roles too.
Looking ahead, Chandran hopes viewers connect with Vivi’s arc. “For young women… it’s not about not having fear. It’s about pushing through the fear. That’s what bravery is.” She highlights themes of chosen family and vulnerability: “Letting love in… accepting the love that is there… if you can’t feel it when they’re giving it to you, then what’s the point?” As an optimist, she believes most people are “kind and loving and generous,” and Vivi’s journey reflects that hopeful light.
The interview closes warmly: “Thank you so much… I look forward to talking again soon.” “Oh, I hope so. Thank you!”
Chandran’s portrayal brings depth to Vivi/Miss Wednesday—a princess-turned-bounty hunter who evolves into a true ally to the Straw Hats amid Baroque Works’ schemes and Alabasta’s turmoil. Amid the Grand Line’s perils, her performance underscores One Piece‘s core messages of friendship, courage, and embracing love despite fears.
Catch ONE PIECE: Into the Grand Line now on Netflix, and watch Chandran shine as one of the series’ most beloved characters. Yo ho ho—the adventure continues! 🩵🏴☠️
