The Netflix adaptation of the anime series Cowboy Bebop is rumored to resume filming, after being setback by the coronavirus pandemic.

New Zealand news blog Stuff reports the production crew for Netflix’s live-action adaptation of Cowboy Bebop has been given an exemption to disembark in the country for filming. New Zealand currently has mostly closed their borders in order to maintain control of the situation during the ongoing pandemic.

At least “206 film workers, along with 35 family members” will be given an exception to stay in New Zealand while filming resumes on the series. But according to Sian Rogusk- who manages immigration for New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment- the crew will do so “with all meeting their own quarantine or self-isolation costs.” 

Netflix joins multiple other crews being given exceptions to film on the island nation. This includes crews for the upcoming Lord of The Rings television series, the Avatar sequel, The Greatest Beer Run Ever, and Power Rangers. It is estimated that overseas film producers will bring over 3000 jobs, and over $400 million USD to New Zealand.

Executive producer and writer for the series Javier Grillo-Marxuach recently explained that the live action series wouldn’t attempt to replace the original anime. Grillo-Marxuach also went onto explain that there would be changes to the series to bring it more in line with modern sensibilities, including a more conservative outfit for Faye Valentine, and a “less glamorized” depiction of smoking.

The Netflix adaptation of Cowboy Bebop stars John Cho as Spike Siegal, Mustafa Shakir as Jet Black, Daniella Pineda as Faye Valentine, Alex Hassell as Vicious.

Filming for Cowboy Bebop was also delayed due to an on-set accident three episodes in, where Spike Siegal actor John Cho was injured. While the first season has yet to leave production, writers are reportedly working on season 2 already.

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