Drama Queen chapter one edited after the fact, fans call censorship

Drama Queen has sparked controversy in recent weeks, with fans noticing a changed line in chapter one.

The manga follows two Japanese young adults who challenge the societal norms that favor a group of alien “saviors” integrated into society. The series has been interpreted as a metaphor for immigration issues in developed countries.

In one scene, the protagonist Nomamoto expresses frustration towards the aliens after a sidewalk encounter, also mentioning annoyance towards women who refer to their significant others as “partner”.

Critics initially speculated that the line could be seen as anti-LGBTQ due to its reference to the gender-neutral term “partner”.

Some suggest that the main character’s aversion to the term “partner” in #ドラマクイン #DramaQueen may be perceived as anti-LGBTQ. pic.twitter.com/UEhXrqvtr5

— Jayce (@stuckathome711) December 13, 2024

The controversial line uses the word 相方, which translates to “partner”. Other potentially sensitive lines regarding immigration were left unchanged.

English localizers have faced criticism from fans for altering content they deem unacceptable.

Drama Queen can be read now on Shueisha’s official manga reader as a simulpub release. The first chapter is available for viewing.