Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the anime/manga ‘Cowboy Bebop’ has shut down production for 7 to 9 months, following an on-set knee injury suffered by the show’s star, John Cho. The injury requires surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period. Cho has been flown back to Los Angeles from Auckland, New Zealand, where the show is filming. Cho is the series’ lead, portraying mercenary Spike Spiegel.

According to Deadline, sources report that Cho’s injuries resulted from a “freak accident” on the last take of a “routine and well-rehearsed scene.” The production is waiting for an official prognosis on Cho’s condition before scheduling when the show will resume filming. It was stressed that Netflix will not recast the role.

A spokesman for Netflix said:

“Our thoughts are with John and he has our complete support as he recuperates from this injury.”

The show just began filming on October 7th, as was indicated by a video posted on Twitter.



Really hoping the entire season of Cowboy Bebop is shot in Corgi-Vision. #CowboyBebop pic.twitter.com/C42CLwYswa — 🐐🎃 NheX 🦇🔪 (@NXOnNetflix) October 7, 2019

‘Cowboy Bebop’ is based on the manga by Hajime Yatate, which has already been successfully adapted as an anime. The live-action show was created by Christopher Yost who serves as executive producer, writer, and showrunner.

Cho’s character, Spike Spiegel is described as:

“Spike, the male lead, is young and handsome with a carefree demeanor to hide his dangerous side. While he tries to hide it, Spike can’t help but fall for a damsel in distress and is haunted by his past.”

Another description reads:

“Cho is Spike Spiegel, an impossibly cool “cowboy” (bounty hunter) with a deadly smile, a wry wit, and style to spare. He travels the solar system with his ex-cop partner, Jet, pursuing the future’s most dangerous bounties with a combination of charm, charisma — and deadly Jeet Kune Do.”

Daniella Pineda portrays the “bold, brash and unpredictable” amnesiac Faye Valentine, a sharp-tongued con woman, while Mustafa Shakir plays the “softy at heart” ex-cop Jet Black, the pilot of the group, who lost his job after being framed. Opposing this group of mercenaries is Vicious, played by Alex Hassell, the leader of the criminal organization known as The Syndicate, who also happens to be Spike’s former partner. “He will kill anyone who gets in the way of his business without a second thought.” Elena Satine portrays Vicious’ girlfriend, Julia who shares a mysterious connection to Spike, appearing to him in dreams and visions.

Best wishes to John Cho! Get well soon!