On Bebop and Basquash
In a special Japanese panel called "the Collaborative Overseas Business Model, as Shown by Basquash & Cowboy Bebop," Sunrise president Kenji Uchida discussed how anime is turning into a global business. In terms of Bebop, he's referring to the upcoming American live-action movie starring Keanu Reeves. As it turns out, it was Keanu's enthusiasm on the project that ultimately clinched Sunrise to green light it. Uchida also said that Sunrise has a script approval clause in the contract, meaning the script can't go through unless they like it.
In terms of Basquash!, which premieres this Spring in Japan, I was surprised to find out that unique series shares some connections to Oban Star-Racers! It can even be considered a sister series. Just like Oban, Basquash is a team effort series between Japan & France. So now knowing this connection, I'm even more excited to see this series!
Source: http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-03-23/sunrise/keanu-reeves-zeal-clinched-cowboy-bebop-deal