Ask John: Will Cowboy Bebop Ever Have a Prequel?

Question:
I’ve thought about this ever since I saw the 5th episode of Cowboy Bebop, and now with the movie out in Japan, do you think they would even consider making a prequal to Cowboy Bebop? Do anime have prequals often?

Answer:
No one can say whether or not there will be a prequel or even sequel series to Cowboy Bebop besides the executives and staff of Sunrise Studios. However, word has come down that there may very well be more Cowboy Bebop produced should the movie perform well at the Japanese box-office. That potential may be questionable considering that the Cowboy Bebop failed to even enter the Japanese box office top 10 grossing films during its theatrical run. Nevertheless, the popularity of the series among both Japanese and American fans may see more Cowboy Bebop anime make its was into production.

While it probably would be quite interesting to see a greater exploration of Spike’s relationship to Vicious, prequels for anime series are relatively uncommon, although not entirely unheard of. Rurouni Kenshin, Slayers, and both the Space Pirate Captain Harlock universe all had prequel series produced after their debut series. Rurouni Kenshin had is prequel OAV series. The second Slayers OAV series, Slayers Excellent, went back in time to Lina’s first meeting with Naga. And Matsumoto’s universe had My Youth in Arcadia, Endless Road SSX and Maetel Legend, all of which detailed the backgrounds of Captain Harlock, Emeraldas and Maetel. However, much more common are anime sequels or alternate continuity/storyline series. Gundam is filled with both alternate universe series and series that go back in time setting, although no Gundam series has been set earlier in time than the original TV series. Tenchi Muyo is another good example of alternate continuities that will be familiar to most anime fans.