Shinichirō Watanabe has been at the forefront of sci-fi storytelling since his early work on the acclaimed Macross franchise, notably Macross Plus. Over his illustrious 35-year career, he has crafted some of the most iconic and influential series in anime history. His masterpiece, Cowboy Bebop, is a jazz-infused neo-noir that follows a group of charismatic space bounty hunters navigating the vast expanse of the galaxy. The series' timeless appeal is significantly bolstered by Yoko Kanno's legendary score, which continues to resonate with fans through live performances and re-releases of the soundtrack.

Cowboy Bebop's impact extends far beyond its own universe, influencing a wide array of creators across different media. From Rian Johnson of Star Wars fame to Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Diego Molano of Victor And Valentino, many have cited Cowboy Bebop as a pivotal influence on their work. This testament to Watanabe's storytelling prowess has cemented Cowboy Bebop's place as a cornerstone in the anime canon, attracting even those who typically do not engage with the genre.

6 Best Anime Like Cowboy Bebop

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For those who have recently binged Cowboy Bebop or are looking for their next adventure, we've curated a list of anime that capture the essence of space exploration, globe-trotting, and moral ambiguity that made Cowboy Bebop so beloved.

Lazarus

Our first recommendation is Watanabe's latest venture, Lazarus, which premiered on Adult Swim on April 5th. Produced by MAPPA and Sola Entertainment, with John Wick's Chad Stahelski overseeing the art direction and original music by Kamasi Washington, Floating Points, and Bonobos, Lazarus is one of the most anticipated anime releases of the year. It echoes the gritty, underdog spirit of Cowboy Bebop, making it a perfect stylistic companion. Set in a world where a life-saving drug turns deadly three years after its use, the series follows Axel, a convict tasked with assembling a team to find the drug's creator and develop an antidote within 30 days. Prepare for a thrilling, dark journey.

Terminator Zero

Next, we have Terminator Zero, a grounded and intense addition to the Terminator saga, directed by Masashi Kudō and produced by Production IG and Mattson Tomlin. While it may be more serious than Cowboy Bebop, its stylish action sequences and detailed gunplay will satisfy fans craving similar thrills. Set in a world grappling with contemporary technology and culture, Terminator Zero offers a fresh take on the franchise's Judgement Day through a distinctly Japanese lens, making it a must-watch in 2025.

Space Dandy

Space Dandy, another gem from Watanabe's repertoire, sees him stepping back to serve as general director while Shingo Natsume takes the helm. This light-hearted space opera, produced by Bones, is a nostalgic nod to classic Saturday morning cartoons. It follows the adventures of Dandy, a stylish bounty hunter on a mission to discover and register new alien species. While the premise may seem simple, the series delves into existential themes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Lupin 3rd

For those seeking the same sense of adventure and boundless potential as Cowboy Bebop, Lupin III is an excellent choice. This fun-filled crime caper, created by Kazuhiko Katō under the pseudonym Monkey Punch, has expanded across manga, anime, video games, and films since its 1965 debut. The 1971 anime adaptation, directed by Masaaki Ōsumi and featuring early work from Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, is the perfect starting point. With over five decades of content, fans have a wealth of stories to explore.

Samurai Champloo

Samurai Champloo, often considered the spiritual successor to Cowboy Bebop, was conceived during Watanabe's work on Cowboy Bebop: The Movie. While it shifts to a historical setting, it retains the themes of life, freedom, and mortality that define Watanabe's work. The series follows a trio of morally ambiguous characters—Mugen, Fuu, and Jin—as they navigate the Edo period, with a focus on inclusion and tolerance that was ahead of its time.

Trigun

If the allure of Cowboy Bebop lies in its stylish action and morally complex protagonist, Trigun will captivate you. Adapted from Yasuhiro Nightow's manga, this noir-inspired space western follows Vash, a man with a massive bounty on his head due to his uncontrollable powers that led to the destruction of a city. As the series unfolds, it explores the dynamics between Vash and those hunting him, earning critical acclaim and boosting the manga's popularity in the US.