Creator LeSean Thomas, known for "Yasuke" and "Cannon Busters", is bringing a new six-episode limited animated series. It will premiere on Netflix on November 3, 2026. Titled "Bass X Machina", the show is an adult animated science-fiction series that comes with a unique blend of genres and visual styles. It combines the American Wild West with steampunk technology, historical fiction and supernatural adventure.
Interestingly, the series offers a futuristic reimagining of Bass Reeves, one of the most famous African American lawmen in American history. (David Oyelowo plays him in the live-action Paramount+ series "Lawmen: Bass Reeves.") However, instead of presenting a traditional Western story, it places Reeves in an alternate version of the Old West filled with advanced machines, dangerous outlaws and supernatural creatures.
"Bass X Machina" images Bass Reeves as a former soldier who loses his arm during the war and replaces it with a powerful cybernetic limb. He later becomes a bounty hunter, traversing a lawless frontier where danger can come from both human enemies and extraordinary machines. His life takes a dramatic turn when a rogue scientist threatens to start another American Civil War. To protect his family and prevent the frontier from falling into chaos, Reeves must take matters into his own hands. He becomes judge, jury and executioner as he faces ruthless criminals, giant mechanical weapons and supernatural threats.
The show's visual style and atmosphere have been described as a mix of gritty Western storytelling and a futuristic world reminiscent of "Blade Runner".
The animation is being handled by Studio Mir, the South Korean studio known for its work on popular animated productions such as "The Legend of Korra", "Voltron: Legendary Defender" and "Devil May Cry". The studio has built a reputation for detailed character designs, smooth action sequences and impressive fight choreography.
The series also features a talented voice cast. Brian Tyree Henry voices Bass Reeves, while Janelle Monáe plays Glory. Tati Gabrielle voices Dana, Cree Summer plays Ahni, Chaske Spencer voices Lighthorse, and Currie Graham plays Rivenbark.
