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In October 2023, Netflix will bid farewell to one of its iconic anime series, “Cowboy Bebop,” in select regions, including the US and Canada. This marks the end of its streaming journey on the platform. The beloved anime series, originally created by Shinichirō Watanabe and produced by Sunrise Inc., made its debut in Japan in 1998, captivating fans worldwide.
The Journey on Netflix
Netflix acquired the rights to “Cowboy Bebop” in the US back in October 2021, giving viewers access to all 26 episodes, complete with both the original Japanese audio and English dubs. However, the removal notice on Netflix specifies that the final day to watch “Cowboy Bebop” will be October 21st, with the actual removal scheduled for October 22nd.
A Global Perspective
While viewers in regions like Australia and the United Kingdom can breathe easy, as they will continue to enjoy the series, others may want to catch it before it’s gone from Netflix in their region. The rights to the show in these areas have been secured through to 2029, ensuring fans can relish the adventures of the Bebop crew for years to come.
The Live-Action Adaptation
For those who can’t get enough of the “Cowboy Bebop” universe, there’s more good news. The live-action adaptation of the series, produced by Netflix, is expected to remain on the platform indefinitely unless Netflix decides otherwise. So, if you’re a fan of the original anime and curious to see how it translates into live-action, you won’t be disappointed.
A Brief Introduction to “Cowboy Bebop”
“Cowboy Bebop” is a Japanese anime series that originally aired from 1998 to 1999. What sets it apart is its unique blend of genres, combining elements of science fiction, Westerns, and noir films. Set in the year 2071, the series follows a group of bounty hunters traveling on a spaceship called the Bebop. These 26 episodes, also known as “sessions,” delve into themes of existential boredom, loneliness, and the difficulty of escaping one’s past.
A Resounding Success
The impact of “Cowboy Bebop” cannot be overstated. It was not only dubbed into English but also became the first anime to be broadcast on Adult Swim in 2001. The series received widespread acclaim and is considered one of the greatest animated TV series ever. Its appeal was not limited to Japan; it achieved critical and commercial success internationally, particularly in the United States.
The show garnered numerous awards for its stylish animation, well-developed characters, captivating storylines, impressive voice acting, and a memorable soundtrack. The English dub, in particular, is celebrated and is often regarded as one of the best in the anime world. “Cowboy Bebop” played a pivotal role in introducing anime to a new Western audience, often being recommended as a starting point for newcomers to the genre.
Characters from Cowboy Bebop
| Character | Description |
| Spike Spiegel | An iconic space cowboy with green hair, often seen wearing a blue suit. He carries a sense of lethargy due to losing the woman he loves, and his past haunts him. |
| Jet Black | A former ISSP officer who has lost confidence in his former life and become cynical about society. He is depicted as more bulky and wears casual clothing, reflecting his state of mind. |
| Faye Valentine | A lively and sensuous woman who joined the crew later. Her initial appearance is compared to Poker Alice, a famous Western figure. Her defining traits include liveliness and sensuality. |
| Edward Wong | An eccentric and carefree character, motivated by a sense of loneliness after being abandoned by her father. |
| Ein | A highly intelligent Pembroke Welsh Corgi. His design was based on a real-life corgi, and he serves as a motion model for the character. |
Unraveling the Plot
In the year 2071, humanity has expanded throughout the Solar System after a near-catastrophic event rendered Earth nearly uninhabitable. To combat rising crime, the Inter Solar System Police (ISSP) relies on bounty hunters, known as “Cowboys,” to capture criminals for rewards. The narrative revolves around the crew of the Bebop, initially led by Spike Spiegel, a former hitman from the Red Dragon Syndicate, and Jet Black, a former ISSP officer.
The eclectic crew also includes Faye Valentine, an amnesiac con artist; Edward, a young hacker with eccentricities, and Ein, a highly intelligent Pembroke Welsh Corgi. While many adventures are episodic, the central plot revolves around Spike’s perilous rivalry with Vicious, a member of the Red Dragon Syndicate.
Spike and Vicious were once comrades, but their paths diverged when Spike fell in love with Vicious’s girlfriend, Julia, leading to animosity and enmity. Spike escapes the Syndicate, Julia goes into hiding, and Vicious seizes control of the criminal organization. Julia resurfaces, and Spike seeks to reunite with her, setting the stage for a violent confrontation as Vicious is determined to eliminate them both. The series masterfully blends episodic adventures with a compelling tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, all set against a futuristic, crime-ridden Solar System.
Where to Continue Your “Cowboy Bebop” Journey
If you’re not ready to bid farewell to “Cowboy Bebop,” you have several options to keep the adventure alive. Besides Netflix, which offers the complete series until October 22, 2023, you can find it on Hulu and Funimation if you’re in the United States. Additionally, Crunchyroll has also joined the lineup, having merged with both Funimation and Wakanim on March 1, 2022. Whether you prefer Netflix, Hulu, Funimation, or Crunchyroll, there are multiple avenues to relish “Cowboy Bebop” and its captivating spacefaring escapades.
How Long Will “Cowboy Bebop” Be on Netflix?
For those wondering about the specific timeframe, “Cowboy Bebop” will remain available on Netflix until October 22, 2023, in select regions, including the United States and Canada. However, viewers in certain regions like Australia and the United Kingdom may have the privilege of enjoying the series on Netflix until at least 2029, thanks to extended licensing rights.
Cowboy Bebop Leaving Netflix in October 2023 – FAQs
1. When is Cowboy Bebop leaving Netflix?
Cowboy Bebop is leaving Netflix on October 22, 2023, in select regions.
2. Can I still watch Cowboy Bebop on Netflix in some regions?
Yes, viewers in regions like Australia and the United Kingdom can enjoy Cowboy Bebop on Netflix until at least 2029.
3. Where can I watch Cowboy Bebop online?
You can watch Cowboy Bebop on Netflix, Hulu, Funimation, and Crunchyroll, depending on your region.
4. What is Cowboy Bebop known for?
Cowboy Bebop is known for its unique blend of genres, including science fiction, Western, and noir, and its exploration of themes like existential boredom and loneliness.
5. Who are the main characters in Cowboy Bebop?
The main characters include Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Edward Wong, and Ein.
In conclusion,
“Cowboy Bebop” leaving Netflix in October 2023 is a bittersweet moment for fans. While some regions will continue to enjoy this iconic series, others must bid farewell to a show that left an indelible mark on the world of anime. Nevertheless, the enduring legacy of “Cowboy Bebop” ensures that its adventures will be cherished by both longtime fans and newcomers for years to come. So.
