News

Shinichiro Watanabe's latest jazz-themed apocalyptic anime, Lazarus, is thriving in the anime space; it is a reminder of the director's unquestionable success established by the iconic Cowboy Bebop and the zany Space Dandy. Lazarus elevates the ominous tone of the story through on-brand themes that pay tribute to Shinichiro Watanabe's legacy.

Recently, the Television Academy announced Lazarus’s nomination for Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music at the 2025 Emmy Awards. This groundbreaking success sets the anime industry on a higher creative pedestal by paying homage to one of anime’s famed directors behind the success of the Adult Swim show.

It would be a huge win for the anime community if Lazarus eventually secures the Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music Emmy Award, despite facing stiff competition from equally resonating title songs.

Lazarus Emmy Nomination Is Amazing, But It Faces Stiff Competition It Would Be a Tough Win for...

Alright, let’s get one thing straight: Lazarus is not a masterpiece. It’s flashy, sure. Stylistically bold? Absolutely. But as a narrative? Not quite like classic Watanabe. Emotionally? A bit cold. And critically? Polarizing, at best. Yet here we are talking about how Shinichiro Watanabe’s latest brainchild just received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. That’s correct. Not an anime award. Not a niche fandom poll. A Primetime Emmy.

So on July 10, the Television Academy announced its nomination list for the 77th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, and right in the middle of all there was this surprise nomination: Lazarus was nominated for ‘Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music,’ thanks to jazz maestro Kamasi Washington’s epic tune, ‘Vortex.’ And while the nomination is technically for music, let’s not downplay what this means: Anime is seriously making its way onto mainstream Western recognition, and Lazarus is one of...

A father-daughter composing team was nominated, Hans Zimmer could win his first Emmy, and a music supervisor was nominated for three different shows — just some of the surprises among nominations for the 2024-2025 Emmys unveiled Tuesday morning by the Television Academy.

Thomas Newman and his daughter Julia Newman were nominated for their music for Netflix’s miniseries “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” a first in Emmy history for a two-generation, same-family collaboration on a single television score. And in another musical-family story, Oscar and Emmy winner Michael Giacchino’s son Mick Giacchino was nominated for his original music for HBO’s “The Penguin.”

Zimmer, who has two Oscars and four Grammys, has never won an Emmy but could this year with his nomination in the documentary music category for NBC’s “The Americas” (shared with fellow composers Anze Rozman and Kara Talve).

Music supervisor Gabe Hilfer dominated the...

Saul Williams and Carlos Niño will release their debut collaborative album, Saul Williams Meets Carlos Niño & Friends at TreePeople, on Aug. 28. The duo have previewed the LP with an expansive, 16-minute track titled “Sound Then Words.”

The improvised album, produced by Niño, was recorded live under black oak and walnut trees in Coldwater Canyon Park in Los Angeles on Dec. 18, 2024. The performance, set up by Noah Klein of Living Earth on the grounds of longstanding conservationist organization TreePeople, was the first of its kind for Williams and Niño, who have...

In the eyes of many anime fans, creator Shinichiro Watanabe of Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo fame could do no wrong. However, on the other side of Lazarus, his newest and seemingly most polarizing series to date, even his work recently being submitted for Emmy consideration is stirring up controversy.

The series premiered in April on the newly re-re-named HBO Max (Max at the time), immediately dividing audiences and critics. The numbers reflect the polarization: Rotten Tomatoes pits Lazarus' 91% critic score against fans' more lukewarm 75%. Nonetheless, the fissure hasn't scared Adult Swim from submitting Lazarus as an Emmy contender in two categories: Outstanding Animated Program ("Don't Stop the Dance") and Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music for Kamasi Washington's opening theme, "Vortex."

Cowboy Bebop Creator's Lazarus Anime Gets Emmy Gamble Despite Polarizing Reviews #AdultSwim has submitted Lazarus for Emmy consideration in these categories:Outstanding Animated Program (Don’t Stop the...

Jessica Pratt’s Here in the Pitch took home record of the year at the A2IM Libera Awards Monday night in New York, while Mj Lenderman was named breakthrough artist and Raye won self-released record of the year for “Genesis.”

The awards, hosted by the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) and presented by Merlin kicked off Indie Week and were given out at rapid fire between performances from nominees Ekko Astral, Swamp Dogg, Serpantwithfeet and Reyna Tropical, the latter of whom won for Latin record for last year’s Malegria.

“Music to me is what survived, to me, through so much pain and grief and continues to,” Reyna Tropical’s Fabi Reyna said through tears as she accepted her award in person Monday night. “This album was something I created from the biggest griefs of my life, turned into a pathway that has shown me and continues...

Shinichiro Watanabe’s association with any project makes it difficult for fans to keep their expectations realistic. After all, the director has given us enriching and thoroughly entertaining experiences with shows like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. Perhaps Lazarus is partly suffering due to the weight of expectations.

The anime was highly anticipated, but its reception has been quite underwhelming, which is surprising. Or maybe not because it’s apparent how Lazarus lacks the same spark as its predecessors. While the anime might have failed to garner similar praise or attention as Cowboy Bebop or Samurai Champloo, it does one thing right: the music.

Lazarus’ soundtrack might be the best thing about it

Going into any anime directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, the least you can expect is a fresh story that isn’t riddled with anime stereotypes and great music! All his original creations check both these boxes, including Lazarus.

In a streaming landscape dominated by subscription fatigue, anime fans have just been offered a rare gift. The first episode of Lazarus -- Shinichiro Watanabe's neon-drenched return to form -- is now available to stream completely free, no login required.

The series takes place in the not-so-distant future of 2052, where a miracle painkiller called "Hapna" sweeps the world -- until its creator returns from hiding to announce it will kill everyone who's taken it in exactly 30 days. A desperate race against time as the titular team of specialists hunts for an antidote ensues, and the show's premiere episode is now more accessible than ever, with it being recently released on Adult Swim's official YouTube channel.

Lazarus Anime Breaks Free From Streaming Paywalls as First Episode Lands Free Home The first episode of "Lazarus" is available to watch for free on Adult Swim's YouTube! #Toonamihttps://t.co/X2eNyzigGS...

We will update this article throughout the season, along with all our predictions, so make sure to keep checking IndieWire for the latest news from the 2025 Emmys race. The nomination round of voting takes place from June 12 to June 23, with the official Emmy nominations announced Tuesday, July 15. Afterwards, final voting commences on August 18 and ends the night of August 27. The 77th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards are set to take place on Sunday, September 14, and air live on CBS at 8:00 p.m. Et/ 5:00 p.m. Pt.

The State of the Race

The Outstanding Animated Program category serves as a great example of what the platonic ideal of Emmys voting is. It does not shy away from acknowledging when stalwart favorites remain good, but those who vote for the category have also been quick to recognize the different animation projects that drive the medium forward.

For example, the most recent...

When a director like Shinichiro Watanabe returns with a new anime like Lazarus, comparisons to Cowboy Bebop are bound to happen. This is because each fan, whether from the prime jazz time or the modern anime enthusiast, they are bound to have heard about the classic space-era anime of Cowboy Bebop. From the stylish animation and designs to the jazzy soundtrack, it had everything the fans could want in an anime.

But then again, it seems to be extremely similar in Lazarus as well. The animation seems similar with the soundtracks being of the same vein, it makes one wonder, what relation does Lazarus have to Cowboy Bebop, could it be a sequel? Or a spiritual successor? To all these questions, Watanabe answers in the negative.

Lazarus isn’t Cowboy Bebop’s successor, and that’s the point

From the calm and stylish protagonist Axel Gilberto to the heavy space-noir vibes,...

After almost 5 years, Shinichiro Watanabe is back with his banger series, Lazarus. It has all the components of a promising showstopper, be it animation, storyline, or music. The overall vibe is set to take viewers on a nostalgic trip back to the 90s and 2000s.

Not only that, but the action scenes and the concept itself are reminiscent of the early cyberpunk anime. The dystopian themes especially are well-laid out and thought of through the art design and landscape. It seems too good to be true, but things might not fare well for the makers, and here’s why.

Axel Gilbert in a still from the Lazarus anime | Credit: Mappa

In the first episode itself, the series underlined a fatal flaw that hit a sour note. This is detrimental to the viewership, yes, but it also strips the series of its essence in several ways. To make it worse, people...

The latest anime series from Cowboy Bebop 's Shinichiro Watanabe is here! Lazarus has joined the Adult Swim lineup. Naturally, a Watanabe series has to have awesome music—and for the ending movie, the series has chosen a 90s classic. The ending theme song, also called "Lazarus," was originally released in 1992 by English alternative rock band the Boo Radleys. The song also led off the band's 1993 studio album, Giant Steps. Check it out as the basis of the new anime's ending: Lazarus Ending Movie Related: Lazarus Anime Opening Movie Streamed Shinichiro Watanabe writes the original story and directs Lazarus at animation studio Mappa with planning production by Sola Entertainment. Chad Stahelski (87Eleven Action Design) serves as action supervisor, Akemi Hayashi provides the character designs, and Kamasi Washington / Bonobo / Floating Points provide the music. The story of Lazarus is described as follows: The year is 2052. The world seemed to be on...

The question of the true nature of humanity, of human egocentrism, has been the central topic of a number of iconic anime titles. Renowned director Shinichiro Watanabe’s timeless classic, Cowboy Bebop, is a great example of this where the opposing perspective related to the issue is shown through Spike and Vicious’ ideological conflict. Watanabe’s most recent venture, Lazarus, heavily marketed as a spiritual successor to Cowboy Bebop, also raises questions revolving around similar subject matter, as seen in the adrenaline-pumping, action-packed pilot episode of the anime series.

Mappa and Sola Entertainment have contributed to visually stunning animation sequences and production design, and Watanabe’s trademark emphasis on music is realized through the catchy score created by Kamasi Washington. Chad Stahelski, creator of the John Wick franchise, has been actively involved in crafting the fluid action sequences. Needless to say, just the overall creative powerhouse behind the project is...

Cowboy Bebop director Shinichiro Watanabe is preparing for the upcoming premiere of his new anime series, Lazarus. While many fans are likely expecting it to resemble his classic '90s space western, Watanabe denies that Lazarus is anything comparable to a "revival" of that series.

Lazarus is a dark post-apocalyptic sci-fi tale about a desperate race to save humanity from the effects of a supposed "miracle" drug called Hapna. With all the world's citizens on borrowed time, a group of agents is assembled to track down the drug's creator and make him produce a cure. In a recent interview with Vulture, Watanabe explained how, even though the project borrows stylistic elements from his past works, it is unique in terms of tone and narrative. "Lazarus is made up of elements I have created in the past, but I am not reviving them. I am doing something new," he stated.

New...

Spoilers for "Lazarus" follow.

Shinichirō Watanabe is an anime auteur, most famous for directing 26-episode Space Western "Cowboy Bebop." The legacy of that show colors his career beyond just people remembering it as one of the best anime ever. Watanabe's later projects have sometimes felt like a response to or evolution of "Bebop." (His science-fiction musical drama "Carole & Tuesday" is set on the same terraformed Mars that "Bebop" often visited.)

The same can definitely be said of Watanabe's latest directorial project: "Lazarus." The series, animated at studio Mappa and produced by Sola Entertainment, is a 13-episode science-fiction action-thriller. Set in 2055 — similar to "Bebop," this future is within our lifetimes — the crux of the show is a miracle painkiller, Hapna.

Its inventor, Dr. Skinner, announces that the drug was designed to mutate after three years and soon, Hapna will kill everyone who took it. That means everyone in the world,...

The official Mappa Channel shared a look at the opening movie for Lazarus , the new anime from Cowboy Bebop director Shinichiro Watanabe. The series kicks off to “Vortex” by Kamasi Washington, and you can watch the stylish visuals unfold in the video below. Lazarus Opening Movie Related: Lazarus TV Anime Debuts on April 5 on Adult Swim Lazarus is set to premiere on April 5 at midnight on Adult Swim during the Toonami block, with Max streaming the following day. The Japanese language version with English subtitles will follow 30 days after the English dub debut. Shinichiro Watanabe writes the original story and directs Lazarus at animation studio Mappa with planning production by Sola Entertainment. Chad Stahelski (87Eleven Action Design) serves as action supervisor, Akemi Hayashi provides the character designs, and Kamasi Washington / Bonbo / Floating Points provide the music. The story of Lazarus is described as follows: The year is 2052. The world seemed...

There is no doubt that Shinichiro Watanebe’s upcoming Lazarus anime is one of the most anticipated Spring 2025 debuts, possibly the biggest one among the list (excluding returning shows). It’s been a while since Watanabe made an anime after scoring hits with Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo, and with his track record, the fans are excited.

And while the production suffered a large hiatus, we now know that the anime is premiering on April 6, 2025 and to hype us up even more, the opening video for the anime has just been released.

Related: Shinichiro Watanabe’s ‘Lazarus’ Anime Adds 14 Cast Members

Before we continue, here is the Op video:

Kamasi Washington is performing the opening theme, “Vortex,” whose instrumental and ambient-focused nature reminds us of Watanabe’s previous work. On top of that, the series’ style is very similar to Cowboy Bebop, which is something the fans will appreciate.

The...

Fans of acclaimed anime director Shinichro Watanabe have a new series to look forward to in April. With the Adult Swim premiere of the new anime series Lazarus now just on the horizon, Milan Records has decided to release three new lead singles ahead of the show's April 5 debut.

Lazarus is gearing up to have an incredibly unique soundscape, with multiple artists contributing to the overall soundtrack that should compliment Cowboy Bebop creator Shinichiro Watanabe's distinct story-telling style. Via a press release, three artists are contributing to the Lazarus soundtrack: Kamasi Washington, Floating Point and Bonobo. Known for his eclectic and innovative musical decisions, Watanabe has tasked each of the three artists with creating an entire album for the show's soundtrack, which will contribute to the expansive and dynamic soundscape of the sci-fi setting. Each of the three albums are set to be released on Friday, April 11 -- just...

Rolling Stone is premiering the first collaboration between a seemingly unlikely but delightful pair of iconic artists: Afrobeat star Seun Kuti and Posdnuos of De La Soul linked up for “Stand Well Well (Grand Stand Version),” a cut from Kuti forthcoming deluxe edition of Heavier Yet (Lays The Crownless Head), out May 28. The new song reimagines a version from Kuti’s original album, which came out in October. The pair have long been mutual fans, they tell Rolling Stone.

“My tour manager and amazing friend, who has since passed on,...

Next month, Adult Swim will begin airing Cowboy Bebop creator Shinichiro Watanabe's brand-new anime, Lazarus. Recently, the network unveiled a special sneak peek from the series, giving fans an action-packed introduction to Lazarus' lead character, Axel.

Lazarus' newly-released preview is featured on Adult Swim Europe's official YouTube Channel. The sequence showcases Axel's unique acrobatic skills, which he uses to deftly evade several armed prison guards. The clip also previews the show's English dub, which stars Jack Stansbury (Axel), Bryson Baugus (Leland), Jovan Jackson (Doug), Luci Christian (Christine) and David Matranga (Dr. Skinner). In North America, Lazarus is slated to premiere on Adult Swim's popular Toonami programming block on April 5 at 12 a.m.

Lazarus Is Set to Be Cowboy Bebop Creator's Next Sci-Fi Action Hit Anime

Lazarus is Watanabe's first original anime work since Carole & Tuesday (2019) -- an adolescent drama about two young girls who share a passion for music.

Shinichiro Watanabe’s upcoming anime, Lazarus, is one of the most anticipated anime for the Spring 2025 season. Afterall, the maestro has given us anime like Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo and Space Dandy. But rather than appreciating Lazarus for what it is, fans have resorted to comparing it with Cowboy Bebop.

And that is probably the worst possible attitude to approach a new work with. Watanabe definitely needs more appreciation for Lazarus and what he is aiming to achieve with it. So let’s take a look at how Lazarus could be the next big hit of the anime industry.

Shinichiro Watanabe is bringing a vintage aesthetic with Lazarus Lazarus is targeting the 90s aesthetic | Credits: Mappa

Some of the best cyberpunk anime like Akira, Psycho-Pass, Ghost in the Shell, or Watanabe’s own Cowboy Bebop were made in the late 1900s to early 2010s. The vintage feel of these anime...

The wait is almost over as Shinichiro Watanabe is all set to return with his directorial magic in the Lazarus anime. With a spring 2025 release date, the cast and other exciting information have been announced. A new trailer was also released with this announcement and it looks stunning.

Lazarus – the agents who will save mankind | Credits: Studio Mappa

With less than a month left until the anime’s release, excitement is at an all-time high. So, here’s everything you need to know to catch the first episode as soon as it drops!

Lazarus anime’s spring release and cast confirmed

The story of Lazarus is set in the year 2052, and the world is free of all physical pains, all thanks to Dr. Skinner’s invention – Hapuna. It is the ‘miracle drug’, but an unexpected message from Skinner changes that forever. The alarming message reveals that everyone who has taken Hapuna only has 30 days left.

With just under a month to go until its grand debut, Shinichiro Watanabe's new anime Lazarus is adding more voice actors to its cast— fourteen more, to be precise. Who will they be playing? That's a surprise for later! Joining the cast of the action series are: Yuichi Nakamura (Satoru Gojo in Jujutsu Kaisen ) Tomokazu Sugita (Taro Sakamoto in Sakamoto Days ) Shoya Chiba (Akihiko Nirei in Wind Breaker ) Neeko (Reborn in Reborn! ) Daisuke Ono (Sebastian Michaelis in Black Butler ) Kazuhiko Inoue (Kakashi Hatake in Naruto ) Satoshi Hino (Momonga in Overlord ) Sumire Uesaka (Lum in Urusei Yatsura 2022) Hidenori Takahashi (Konohamaru Sarutobi in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations ) Koki Uchiyama (Gen Narumi in Kaiju No. 8 ) Kensho Ono (Tetsuya Kuroko in Kuroko's Basketball ) Aoi Tada (Radical Ed in Cowboy Bebop ) Ayane Sakura (Ochaco Uraraka in My Hero Academia ) Yoshiko Sakakibara (Queen Nehelenia in Sailor Moon Sailor Stars ) Each voice actor's role...

The new anime Lazarus is coming this April, and it’s already generating excitement. This original sci-fi action series, directed by Shinichirō Watanabe (known for Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo), is being produced by Mappa, the animation studio behind hits like Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen.

It will air on TV Tokyo in Japan starting April 6 at 11:45 p.m. and stream on various platforms.

Fans in the U.S. can catch it a day earlier, on April 5, at midnight Edt on Adult Swim’s Toonami. The episodes will also be available on Max the following day.

Related: 10 Sci-Fi Anime Gems You Need To See

The anime’s plot is set in 2052, a time of peace and prosperity thanks to a miracle drug called Hapuna, developed by Dr. Skinner. This drug eliminates sickness and pain worldwide.

However, three years after its introduction, Skinner reappears with shocking news: the drug has a short half-life,...

Shinichiro Watanabe’s latest anime series, Lazarus, has officially confirmed that it will release on April 5, 2025, in its new trailer.

The series will debut at midnight on Adult Swim’s Toonami block, airing in English, before becoming available for streaming on Max the following day.

Warner Bros. Discovery detailed the release schedule in a press release, confirming that the English-dubbed version of Lazarus will air first, with encore airings scheduled every Thursday at midnight beginning April 10.

The Japanese-language version with English subtitles will become available on Adult Swim and Max 30 days after the English premiere.

In Japan, Lazarus will air on TV Tokyo starting in April 2025.

Checkout the new trailer below:

Adult Swim President Michael Ouweleen expressed excitement over the project, stating, “We’re talking Watanabe here—this show is an amazing mix of great characters, super fun high-stakes, brilliant directing, and of course, some pretty great music. We are...

Lazarus , an upcoming original TV anime from director Shinichiro Watanabe, published a new trailer today and revealed the series will premiere on April 5 at midnight on Adult Swim during the Toonami block. The series will also premiere in Japan on TV Tokyo in April 2025. Warner Bros. Discovery described in a press release that the series will first premiere in English on Adult Swim, with a next-day upload on Max. The Japanese with English subtitle version of the anime will debut in the United States on Adult Swim and Max 30 days after the English-language premiere. Lazarus Anime Official Trailer Shinichiro Watanabe writes the original story and directs Lazarus at animation studio Mappa with planning production by Sola Entertainment. Chad Stahelski (87Eleven Action Design) serves as action supervisor, Akemi Hayashi provides the character designs, and Kamasi Washington / Bonbo / Floating Points provide the music. The English voice cast includes: Dr. Skinner voiced by...

One of the most beloved creators in all of anime is returning to Adult Swim. “Lazarus,” the newest show from “Cowboy Bebop” director Shinichirō Watanabe, will premiere on Adult Swim on April 5 at midnight during the network’s Toonami programming block.

Described as a sci-fi thriller set in the year 2052, “Lazarus” revolves around a miracle drug called Hapna that claims to free anyone who takes it from all pain. But the supposed panacea comes with a horrific side effect: everyone who takes it will die. The series follows a group of agents who only have 30 days to find the vaccine and save all of humanity.

“Three years after ingestion, Hapna will mutate, killing all those who have taken it. But you should know that I currently have the cure,” Dr. Skinner (David Matranga) menacingly says in the trailer for the upcoming series. “So unless you find me within that time,...

Adult Swim released the official trailer for the highly anticipated Lazarus anime, set to be released on April 5 at midnight on Toonami.

Via its official YouTube channel, Adult Swim premiered the official trailer for the upcoming Lazarus anime series, debuting on Apr. 4, 2025. Directing the series is Shinichiro Watanabe, renowned for his work on Cowboy Bebop, Space Dandy, Samurai Champloo, and more. Readers can check out the Lazarus anime trailer below.

Related'i Feel Indebted': Evangelion Creator Reveals the Anime That 'Brought Me Back to Animation'

The creator of Evangelion recently recalled how another original anime series reignited his passion for the animation medium as a whole.

Joining Watanabe, who also co-wrote the screenplay, are Dai Sato, Takahiro Ozawa (Ume) and Tsukasa Kondo as fellow screenplay writers. Akemi Hayashi comes on board as character designer; the popular anime studio Mappa is credited for animation production. John Wick director Chad Stahelski is in charge of action direction,...

In the anime scene, Shinichiro Watanabe’s name is lauded as one of the Japanese animators. With renowned titles such as Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Carole & Tuesday, and so many more. Now, the veteran has set to make his return with a new anime titled Lazarus, which is lined up for the Spring 2025 anime collection.

Axel Gilberto. Credits: Studio Mappa

The sci-fi series has sent waves across the internet as it teases that something new is around the corner. With the series adding to the legacy of Watanabe-Sensei’s legacy, fans have been eagerly waiting to stream the show.

However, trouble seems to already follow the title, as it closely resonates with the 1998 anime and action that draws a parallel with Chad Stahelski’s John Wick. Thus, making fans wonder if the show is an original or is trying to live off the popularity following the two iconic franchises.

Lazarus...

Cowboy Bebop creator Shinichiro Watanabe is set to return this Spring 2025 anime season for the debut of his highly anticipated sci-fi series, Lazarus.

Via the anime's official website, Lazarus will premiere in Japan in April 2025. A new visual was revealed with a new teaser synopsis of the story, which reads, "'Hapna' spreads all over the world as a miracle drug, but it's deadly. The members of the agent team 'Lazarus,' gathered to search for a vaccine and fight against the conspiracy within the 30-day time limit set by the developer Skinner, are depicted. Will 'Lazarus,' the one-month savior, be able to save humanity? Please look forward to the latest news as the show airs and is released!" Readers can check out the visual below; an American release date is Tbc.

Related Cowboy Bebop Creator's New Lazarus Anime Finally Gets Production Update With First Full Reveal of...

The highly anticipated anime Lazarus is shaping up to be a must-watch. It’s directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, the mastermind behind Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo.

The series, animated by Mappa, will hit Japanese TV this April on TV Tokyo and other channels. There’s no word yet on when it will premiere on Toonami, but it’s already generating buzz and is expected to premiere later this year.

The latest teaser visual shows off five characters, all in striking blue tones:

The anime will feature an all-star cast, including Mamoru Miyano (Death Note), Maaya Uchida (Reincarnated as a Slime), Akio Ōtsuka (Ghost in the Shell), and Megumi Hayashibara (Evangelion). Adding to the excitement, jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington is composing the score, joined by musicians Floating Points and Bonobo.

Here’s the story:

The year is 2052 – an era of unprecedented peace and prosperity prevails across the globe. The reason for...

The next sci-fi anime from legendary creator Shinichiro Watanabe will soon be upon us. The official X (formerly Twitter) account for Lazarus revealed tonight that its Japan broadcast will start in April 2025 on TV Tokyo. Alongside the premiere timing, a new visual was released featuring all the main characters. Related: Lazarus TV Anime Reveals New Teaser Art and Theme Song Performers Shinichiro Watanabe writes the original story and directs Lazarus at animation studio Mappa with planning production by Sola Entertainment. Dai Sato, Takahiro Ozawa (Ume), and Tsukasa Kondo join Watanabe in writing the scripts. Chad Stahelski (87Eleven Action Design) serves as action supervisor, Akemi Hayashi provides the character designs, and Kamasi Washington / Bonbo / Floating Points provides the music. The synopsis of Lazarus reads: The year is 2052. The world has entered an era of unprecedented peace and stability, largely due to Hapna, a drug developed by neuroscientist Dr. Skinner. Hapna spread...

Shinichiro Watanabe, the legendary director of Cowboy Bebop, is back with a brand-new anime called Lazarus, coming soon to Toonami in 2025. Animated by Mappa, known for Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan, Lazarus promises to be a thrilling ride, with its first episode already screened at Nycc 2024 to rave reviews.

Set in the year 2055, the story takes place after a miracle painkiller called ‘Hapna’ is released, offering the world an era of peace. However, Dr. Skinner, the drug’s creator, shocks everyone by revealing that it is actually a deadly trap—killing users exactly three years after ingestion.

As Babylonia, a futuristic city, faces disaster, a special team of agents called ‘Lazarus’ is sent to find Dr. Skinner and secure a cure for the deadly drug.

The series is tied to Watanabe’s past works like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo, taking place in the same universe. Lazarus also draws...

Lazarus, the upcoming anime series created by famed Cowboy Bebop director Shinichiro Watanabe and animated by Mappa has recieved an exciting new reveal of the series' setting, the city of Babylonia.

The official X (formerly Twitter) account for Lazarus posted the Babylonia City artwork reveal on Jan. 15, 2024. The art, seen below, features the city’s central tower, adorned with intricate, futuristic designs and crowned by a striking mechanical warrior, with the residential areas of Babylonia sprawling out behind it. The tower is marked by several colorful construction cranes, which have been seen in several teaser visuals as action settings.

Related 'There Were a Lot of Rejected Ideas': Attack on Titan Director on the Challenges of Creating Winter 2025's New Hit Mappa Anime

Attack on Titan episode director Mitsue Yamazaki breaks down the difficult process of developing an anime series based on an original concept.

Cartoon Network's Upcoming Lazarus Anime...

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has revealed its 2025 lineup featuring Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, hometown hero Lil Wayne with The Roots, Lenny Kravitz, Kacey Musgraves, John Fogerty, Luke Combs, Santana, and Burna Boy as headliners.

Other notable acts set to play include Haim, Cage the Elephant, My Morning Jacket, Goose, Laufey, Gladys Knight, Patti Labelle, Kamasi Washington, Banda Ms, The Wailers featuring Julian Marley, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Cheap Trick, Trombone Short & Orleans Avenue, Harry Connick Jr., The Revivalists, Margo Price, Irma Thomas, Tank and The Bangas, Branford Marsalis, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly “The Legacy Band”, Morris Day & the Time, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Hurray for the Riff Raff, James Bay, Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band, Seun Kuti & Egypt 80, Cyril Neville, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, James Bay, Dumpstaphunk, The Radiators, Samantha Fish, Anders Osborne, Kenny Wayne Shepherd with Bobby Rush, Terence Blanchard, and more.

The night has arrived for the airing of the 2024 Kennedy Center Honors special and there are so many incredible performers set to take the stage!

Queen Latifah, who was honored at last year’s show, is hosting the event for the first time.

The recipients to be honored at the annual national celebration of the arts are acclaimed director and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola; the legendary American rock band the Grateful Dead; blues rock singer-songwriter and guitarist Bonnie Raitt; jazz trumpeter, pianist and composer Arturo Sandoval; and The Apollo, which will receive a special Honors as an iconic American institution.

The event was taped on December 8 at the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington D.C. and President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were both in attendance with their spouses.

CBS is airing the special on Sunday night (December 22) from 8:30pm Et to 11:00pm Et. You...

The Kennedy Center Honors 2024 will air tonight on CBS and Paramount+. The ceremony, which was recorded on Sunday, Dec. 8, in Washington, D.C., was hosted by previous honoree Queen Latifah (who began the show with a medley of honoree hits). Honorees were Oscar-winning director Francis Ford Coppola, Grammy-winning jazz trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Bonnie Raitt, legendary rock and roll band Grateful Dead, and New York City’s Apollo Theater (the first time an institution has been selected).

SEEKennedy Center Honors: 50 entertainers who deserve to be selected

Based on various online reports we discovered on Sunday night, here is the complete list of performers and presenters to be seen on the program. Producers might alter the order as presented to the in-person audience.

Apollo Theater:

Remarks by Dave Chappelle

Remarks by Queen Latifah

Performance by Savion Glover (dance tribute)

Performance by The War and Treaty (Marvin Gaye...

Kamasi Washington took the stage at The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Thursday (December 12th) in support of his latest album, Fearless Movement. Watch a replay of the performance below.

While the saxophonist extraordinaire had to cut down the nine-minute album opener “Lesanu” to a more late night-friendly five minutes, it was still ample time for Washington to crush a show-stopping solo — and spotlight several members of his band as well. At the front of the stage, a group of dancers performed a joyful choreographed routine.

Get Kamasi Washington Tickets Here

Last month, Washington reunited with Kendrick Lamar on the rapper’s new album, Gnx (our pick for this year’s best rap album), contributing to “luther” and the anthemic “tv off.”

Fearless Movement was released this past May (pick up your physical copy here) and was previewed by the singles “Prologue” and “Get Lit,” the latter of which...

Upcoming original science fiction TV anime Lazarus has revealed a new piece of teaser art (below) as well as the official opening and ending theme song performers for the series. The series will broadcast in Japan and on Cartoon Network in 2025. Kamasi Washington performs the opening theme song for the series, which is entitled “Vortex”. The Boo radleys perform the ending theme song of the series, which is entitled “Lazarus”. Shinichiro Watanabe writes the original story and directs Lazarus at animation studio Mappa with planning production by Sola Entertainment. Chad Stahelski (87Eleven Action Design) serves as action supervisor, Akemi Hayashi provides the character designs, and Kamasi Washington / Bonbo / Floating Points provide the music. Related: Watch/Listen: Anania Reveals the Unlikely Place They Watched Naruto Growing Up The story of Lazarus is described as follows: The year is 2052. The world has entered an era of unprecedented peace and stability, largely due to Hapna,...

The 2024 edition of the Kennedy Center Honors celebrated an eclectic assortment of entertainers Sunday night: filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, singer Bonnie Raitt, trumpeter Arturo Sandoval and surviving members of the Grateful Dead. The organization also bestowed its honor on an entertainment venue for the first time, New York’s iconic Apollo Theater.

As per tradition, the honorees observed the proceedings from the presidential box in the Kennedy Center Opera House, accompanied by President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and First Husband Doug Emhoff. Freshly arrived from a White House reception, all received rousing ovations from an appreciative audience when introduced.

That White House tradition could go on hiatus during the incoming Trump administration, since Donald Trump notably declined to participate in the affair during his first presidency. Nonetheless, invitations will be extended by the rigidly nonpartisan arts institution, the Kencen assures.

Slated to air on CBS Dec.

A world without Cowboy Bebop is simply too bleak, and fans of the classic anime series would agree. Shinichiro Watanabe brought together certain elements of different genres like cyberpunk and sci-fi to create an experience that blends anime with Hollywood. Whether it’s emotional resonance you’re looking for, characters who leave a lasting impression, or great music to groove to, Cowboy Bebop checks all the boxes.

Spike Spiegel in Cowboy Bebop anime | Credits: Studio Sunrise

It’s the perfect display of Watanabe’s genius as an auteur. Revisiting the charm of the series and then finding out that it wouldn’t have existed, not in the same form at least, is a jarring discovery. During his initial days in the industry, the director faced some struggles that limited his potential. These experiences led to Cowboy Bebop becoming an ensemble of so many cool elements, as Watanabe shared during an interview.

In a recent interview with Anime News Network, renowned director Shinichiro Watanabe confirmed that Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Space Dandy, Carole & Tuesday, and his upcoming project Lazarus all take place within the same universe.

Watanabe’s confirmation came when asked whether Lazarus takes place in the same universe as his earlier works.

“I’ve always thought my shows took place in the same universe,” he stated.

When pressed further, he responded with a smile, nodding slightly: “Of course“.

Related:

Cowboy Bebop Director Shinichiro Watanabe Wants To Collaborate With Billie Eilish

In addition to discussing the shared universe, Watanabe shared insights into Lazarus, his upcoming anime project.

For the first time in his career, Watanabe collaborated with a Hollywood director, Chad Stahelski of John Wick fame, for action choreography.

“I’ve always held his John Wick films in high regard. It’s not just the realism of the action, but how modern it feels,...

Cowboy Bebop director Shinichiro Watanabe has a knack for integrating diverse musical genres into his works. His signature style involves seamlessly blending his narrative with music, which is perfectly portrayed in the series he directs.

For instance Cowboy Bebop features a jazz-infused soundtrack by Yoko Kanno and The Seatbelts, enhancing its neo-noir ambiance. On the other hand, Samurai Champloo combines Edo-period storytelling with hip-hop beats, notably collaborating with artists like Nujabes.

After that came Carole & Tuesday, which centers on aspiring musicians, showcasing a variety of musical styles and featuring contributions from international artists.

So, it is indeed an exciting development for anime fans, when Watanabe expresses a keen interest in collaborating with a pop sensation like Billie Eilish.

In a recent interview with Anime News Network, Watanabe was asked what music he was currently listening to, and what his top 5 was.

The director took this opportunity to share his admiration for Eilish,...

Anime director Shinichir Watanabe is a legend who has consistently bridged the gap between his niche medium and the mainstream. Thanks to seminal hits like Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Space Dandy, and more, Watanabe has established a prestigious reputation even simply when his name is attached. But it's more than a sterling mark of quality connecting these series, with a recent Anime News Network interview highlighting how he believes all of his series, including Lazarus, are connected.

Lazarus, slated for a 2025 release, is Watanabe's latest project and boasts many similar qualities in common with Cowboy Bebop, down to its choreographed action. With the amazing help of star directors like Chad Stahelski, Kamasi Washington, Floating Points, and Bonobo creating the music and animation by Mappa, the series is primed to go down among the greats like all the rest. But with Watanabe's take on his collective works, it might be worth...

Kendrick Lamar is following up the massive success of “Not Like Us” with a new album. The rapper surprise-released his sixth studio album, Gnx, featuring 12 new songs, on Friday, Nov. 22.

Gnx follows the release of his Lamar’s last album Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers in 2022, which served as his comeback album after releasing Damn. in 2017.

The album opens with “Wacced Out Murals,” which features the Spanish vocals of mariachi singer Deyra Barrera, and hears K. Dot rapping scathing lyrics about his detractors. Barrera’s vocals return on track “Reincarnated,...

Kendrick Lamar has dropped a brand new album called Gnx without warning. Stream the 12-track release below.

Gnx marks Lamar’s sixth album to date and follow 2022’s Mr. Morale and the High Steppers. Production was primarily handled by frequent Lamar collaborator Sounwave and Jack Antonoff. Mustard, Terrance Martin, and Kamasi Washington also contributed production. Sza contributed vocals to two tracks: “Luther” and “Gloria.” Gnx also marks Lamar’s first release since cutting ties with Top Dawg Entertainment.

The album comes ahead of Lamar’s headline performance at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans on Sunday, February 9th. His Drake diss song, “Not Like Us” is up for Song of the Year and Record of the Year at the 2025 Grammys.

This is a developing story…

Gnx Artwork:

Gnx Tracklist:

01. wacced out murals

02. squabble up

03. luther (feat. Sza)

04. man at the garden

05. hey now 9feat. Dody6]

06. reincarnated

07. tv off

08. dodger blue (feat.

Lazarus , the upcoming original anime directed by Shinichiro Watanabe ( Cowboy Bebop ), will begin broadcasting and streaming in 2025. The news was announced during a panel discussion at New York Comic-Con 2024 today. In the United States, the 13-episode series will air on Adult Swim's Toonami block. A visual depicting the protagonist Axel flying around the city and an action trailer featuring him were also released. "Lazarus" Axel Action Trailer The announced eight main voice cast members include: Axel voiced by Mamoru Miyano (Light Yagami in Death Note ) Doug voiced by Makoto Furukawa (Saitama in One-Punch Man ) Christin voiced by Maaya Uchida (Catarina Claes in My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! ) Leland voiced by Yuma Uchida (Megumi Fushiguro in Jujutsu Kaisen ) Eleina voiced by Manaka Iwami (Tohru Honda in Fruits Basket ) Hersch voiced by Megumi Hayashibara (Rei Ayanami in Neon Genesis Evangelion ) Abel by Akio Otsuka (Batou...

Shinichir Watanabe, the main director behind Cowboy Bebop, joined the late-night television network Adult Swim at New York Comic Con for a surprise screening of his new series, Lazarus. They played the full premiere episode of the series, which features the voices of original Cowboy Bebop stars Koichi Yamadera and Megumi Hayashibara. Produced by Sola Entertainment and animated by Studio Mappa, Lazarus will premiere on Adult Swim in 2025, and you can watch the newly released trailer below:

Watanabe and Adult Swim have been a match made in heaven for years now, as the network was a frequent distributor of Watanabe's various projects. Cowboy Bebop was one of the first anime series aired on Adult Swim, for example, and many have credited this partnership for introducing the medium to a new generation of Western fans. Adult Swim's Toonami block would even broadcast Watanabe's Space Dandy exclusively in the United States before...

Willow Smith is releasing a deluxe version of her latest album Empathogen, but she’s surprisingly casual about the three new songs and accompanying visuals that will be available Friday.

“I’m just excited for the homies to watch me be crazy, because I love doing that,” Smith tells The Hollywood Reporter. “I love being crazy for other people’s enjoyment.”

What may seem crazy to others is unparalleled commitment on the part of Smith who reveals while working on the original album, “I pretty much locked myself in my house for six months and only practiced music for hours and hours a day.”

The dedication to refining her technical skills as a musician paid off. Her sixth album, released on May 3 and featuring collaborations with Jon Batiste and St. Vincent, hit the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and was bolstered by an NPR Tiny Desk concert,...

Warning! This article contains Spoilers for Bel-Air season 3.

The reimagined version of the 1990s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Bel-Air, has a notable, diverse soundtrack that adds to the story, characters, and atmosphere. Bel-Air takes the characters viewers know and love from the Will Smith original series and gives them a twist in a darker, grittier, more dramatic version of Fresh Prince. Both shows have the same basic premise, but Bel-Air made multiple changes to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

Bel-Air season 3 follows Will, Carlton, the rest of the Banks family, and their friends as they go on their first summer vacation since Will moved to Bel Air. This provides new energy, as the characters have a fun summer away from school, but that doesnt mean Bel-Air season 3 is without drama. Bel-Air season 2 ended with the DJ Jazzy Jeff and Will Smith song, Summertime, setting the stage for...