***Spoilers*** If you havent watched the show all the way through (for some unknown reason) then dont read this.
Ok, so this is a thread on the different theories I have come across regarding the end of Bebop and such. I'll give my opinion on what I think the actual end was at the end of the post.
1. Some people believe that all the members of the Bebop actually died at the end of Session 11: Toys in the Attic because it says "The End" after the episode and that they believe the rest of the show is just Spike's Dream. Apparently one of the producers also atested to this theory.
2. Spike actually dies in session 5: Ballad of Fallen Angels and the rest of the show is his dream. The last 2 sessions are Spike finally coming to the realization that he is dreaming. Hence why Julia says "it's all just a dream" and why Spike told Faye that he's going there to find out if he's truly alive.
3. Spike dies at the very end of Bebop after his fight with Vicious.
4. Spike lives at the end of the show after his fight with Vicious.
My opinion: I personally believe that theory 3 is what actually happened. This article (
http://bebopattic.weebly.com/between-the-lines.html ) actually sums up what I originally thought. Let's not forget about the conversation between Old Indian Chief and his son where he says "Whenever a warrior is born, a star is born as well. When the warrior dies, so does the star" (not exact quote but you get the point) At the end of the series you can see a star fall from the sky (Spike). I also think this is the ending because it ultimately sums up ALL the themes and undertones in the show.
NOW, the creators of the show created the show so you could picture what you want to believe was the fate of the Bebop members. There is so many hidden messages, undertones, and themes in the show that it is mindblowing. It's all apart of the majestic piece of art that is Cowboy Bebop. The greatest anime (screw that noise, best SHOW) of all time.
What do you think of the theories above? Have you heard any other theories? What do you believe was the fate of the Bebop crew and Spike and why?