Find your next favourite: 10 anime recommendations for Cowboy Bebop fans

Cowboy Bebop often serves as an initiation into the world of anime , captivating audiences with its unique blend of jazzy tunes, complex characters, and clever narratives. Despite its singular charm, there are other anime series that resonate with Bebop fans, offering similar vibes and themes. While the recent Netflix adaptation failed to capture the essence of the original, there's a treasure trove of anime waiting to be discovered.

From space westerns to gritty crime dramas, there's something for every Cowboy Bebop enthusiast to delve into. Creator Shinichiro Watanabe has explored similar motifs in his other works, providing fans with a plethora of options to explore beyond Bebop. Here are 10 anime series that every Cowboy Bebop aficionado should consider:

1. Samurai Champloo (2004)

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Set in an alternate Edo period, Samurai Champloo follows the adventures of Fuu, Mugen, and Jin as they search for a mysterious samurai. Created by Shinichiro Watanabe, this series shares Bebop's character-driven storytelling and stylish action sequences, albeit with a hip-hop twist.

2. Death Parade (2015)

Image Courtesy: Death Parade Official X (formerly Twitter) Account

For fans of dark and atmospheric narratives, Death Parade offers a thrilling ride into the afterlife, where souls gamble for their fate. Adapted from the short film Death Billiards, this series delivers tension-filled episodes that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

3. Gungrave (2003)

Image Courtesy: Gungrave Official X (formerly Twitter) Account

Crafted by Trigun creator Yasuhiro Nightow, Gungrave explores themes of betrayal and revenge within the criminal underworld. With its stark storytelling and striking visuals, this anime resonates with Bebop's nihilistic narrative approach.

4. Psycho-Pass (2012)

Image Courtesy: Psycho-Pass Official X (formerly Twitter) Account

Combining futuristic noir elements with social commentary, Psycho-Pass follows a team of law enforcers as they navigate a dystopian society. Like Bebop, this series features a complex protagonist and a thought-provoking narrative.

5. Macross

Image Courtesy: Macross Official X (formerly Twitter) Account

With over 40 years of history, the Macross franchise offers a blend of epic space battles and heartfelt drama. Fans of Cowboy Bebop will appreciate its balance of action and humor, making it a must-watch for space opera enthusiasts.

6. Carole & Tuesday (2019)

Image Courtesy: Carole & Tuesday (2019) Official Website

Set in the same universe as Cowboy Bebop, Carole & Tuesday follows two aspiring musicians on their journey to stardom. While lacking in action, this series captures Bebop's spirit through its music-centric themes and social commentary.

7. Outlaw Star (1998)

Image Courtesy: Outlaw Star Official Website

Featuring a cast of lovable rogues, Outlaw Star follows Gene Starwind and Jim Hawking as they navigate the galaxy in search of adventure. With its engaging characters and spacefaring escapades, this anime appeals to Bebop fans seeking a wild ride.

8. Michiko & Hatchin (2008)

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Following a fugitive duo on the run, Michiko & Hatchin offers a thrilling blend of action and drama. Directed by Cowboy Bebop's own Shinichiro Watanabe, this series shares Bebop's stylistic cues and dynamic storytelling.

9. Kids on the Slope

Image Courtesy: IMDb

A coming-of-age tale set in the 1960s, Kids on the Slope explores the transformative power of jazz music. While not a Watanabe original, this anime captures Bebop's passion for music and nuanced character development.

10. Ghost in the Shell

Image Courtesy: Ghost in the Shell Official Website

A cornerstone of cyberpunk anime, Ghost in the Shell delves into themes of identity and consciousness in a futuristic world. With its stunning visuals and philosophical undertones, this series offers a compelling counterpart to Cowboy Bebop's allure.

Whether it's the thrilling adventures of space bounty hunters or the introspective exploration of human nature, these anime series offer something for every Cowboy Bebop fan to enjoy. So grab your popcorn and dive into the rich tapestry of anime beyond the Bebop universe.