Top Anime Similar to Cowboy Bebop

Shinichirō Watanabe has been a trailblazer in the world of sci-fi anime since his co-direction of the acclaimed Macross franchise, Macross Plus. Over his illustrious 35-year career, he has crafted some of the most beloved and influential series, including Cowboy Bebop, his jazz-infused masterpiece that chronicles the adventures of a ragtag group of space bounty hunters navigating the neo-noir expanse of deep space. The series' iconic score, composed by Yoko Kanno, has played a significant role in its enduring appeal, keeping it alive through live performances, soundtrack rereleases, and more.

Cowboy Bebop has not only captivated anime fans but has also influenced a wide array of creators across different media. Directors and creators such as Rian Johnson of Star Wars, Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Diego Molano of Victor and Valentino have all cited Cowboy Bebop as a major influence on their work. This testament to its impact underscores its role in shaping modern cinema and storytelling.

6 Best Anime Like Cowboy Bebop

6 ImagesCowboy Bebop's reach extends beyond the anime community, attracting viewers who may not typically watch anime. Its enduring popularity and influence make it a cornerstone of the anime canon. If you're looking for what to watch next after your latest (or first) Cowboy Bebop binge, here are some space-faring, globe-trotting, morally ambiguous anime to dive into.

Lazarus

Adult SwimOur first recommendation is Watanabe's latest series, Lazarus, which premiered its first episode on Adult Swim at midnight on April 5th. Produced by MAPPA and Sola Entertainment, with John Wick director Chad Stahelski overseeing the art direction and original compositions from Kamasi Washington, Floating Points, and Bonobos, Lazarus is one of the most anticipated anime releases of the year. It serves as a stylistic companion to Cowboy Bebop, returning to the gritty, underdog sci-fi vibe that fans loved, while feeling strikingly relevant in 2025.

The series follows the aftermath of a life-saving drug that turns fatal three years later, endangering millions. Our protagonist, Axel, a convict with a knack for jailbreaking, must assemble a team to track down the drug's creator and secure an antidote within just 30 days. Buckle up for a thrilling and dark journey.

Terminator Zero

NetflixFor fans craving more grounded and bleak sci-fi, Terminator Zero, directed by Masashi Kudō and produced by Production IG, is a must-watch. Created by Mattson Tomlin, known for his work on the Netflix film Project Power, this series adds a new layer to the Terminator lore. While it's more serious than Cowboy Bebop, its action sequences and gunplay offer a similar thrill, filling the void left by Watanabe's classic.

Terminator Zero stands out for its contemporary take on sci-fi, reflecting current technology and culture in 2025. Visually stunning and pushing boundaries, it reimagines the Terminator franchise's Judgement Day through a unique Japanese perspective, making it a compelling follow-up for Cowboy Bebop fans.

Space Dandy

CrunchyrollSpace Dandy, where Watanabe served as general director under Shingo Natsume, is a lighthearted yet profound space opera brought to life by Bones. If you're seeking a nostalgic trip reminiscent of classic Saturday morning cartoons, this series delivers. It's filled with nods to classic sci-fi and anime, making it a charming watch.

The series follows Dandy, a stylish outer space bounty hunter on a mission to discover and register new alien lifeforms. Alongside his robot and cat companions, Dandy's adventures delve into existential themes, offering a blend of humor and depth. Though it may not have reached the global acclaim of Cowboy Bebop, Space Dandy is rewatchable, visually appealing, and incredibly fun.

Lupin 3rd

Tokyo MovieFor an anime that captures the adventurous spirit and sense of limitless possibility found in Cowboy Bebop, look no further than Lupin III. Created by Kazuhiko Katō under the pseudonym Monkey Punch, this crime caper has expanded across manga, anime, video games, and films since its debut in 1965. The 1971 anime adaptation is the perfect starting point, introducing viewers to the laid-back criminal Lupin, inspired by the fictional gentleman thief Arsene Lupin.

With 23 episodes in the first season, directed by talents like Masaaki Ōsumi, Hayao Miyazaki, and Isao Takahata, Lupin III offers a wealth of stories to explore. Fans can delve into decades of content, from movies to shows, ensuring endless entertainment.

Samurai Champloo

CrunchyrollOften considered the spiritual successor to Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo was conceptualized while Watanabe worked on Cowboy Bebop: The Movie. Although it shifts to a historical setting rather than sci-fi, it shares similar themes of life, freedom, and mortality. The series follows a trio of morally ambiguous heroes: the outlaw Mugen, the tea server Fuu, and the ronin Jin, set against the backdrop of Edo-period Japan.

Watanabe's focus on inclusion and tolerance, inspired by the period setting, adds depth to the narrative, making Samurai Champloo a thought-provoking addition to his oeuvre.

Trigun

Adult SwimIf Cowboy Bebop's blend of stylistic action and morally complex characters is what you crave, Trigun is your next must-watch. Adapted from Yasuhiro Nightow's hit manga, Trigun debuted in Japan in 1998 and the US in 2001. It's a noir-inspired space western with heightened stakes, following Vash, a man with a colossal bounty on his head due to his uncontrollable superpowers, which once led to the destruction of a city.

As the series unfolds, we learn about Vash and those who pursue him, setting up a compelling conflict. Trigun's success propelled the manga to sell out in the US and earned it multiple spots on best-of-the-year lists, making it a fitting follow-up to Cowboy Bebop.