Japanese wrestling drama series The Queen of Villains sets fall 2024 release date on Netflix

Get ready to rumble! The Queen of Villains, an eagerly anticipated Japanese Netflix Original biographical drama series, is set to make its grand entrance this September.

Written and produced by the talented Osamu Suzuki and brought to life by director Kazuya Shiraishi, this series delves into the electrifying life of Dump Matsumoto. She’s not just any wrestler -- Matsumoto became a legendary figure in the 1980s, infamous for her role as one of the most notorious "heels" (villains) in Japanese women's professional wrestling.

Curious about what’s in store? Stick with us as we dive into all the juicy details you won’t want to miss!

What is the plot of The Queen of Villains?

As mentioned, the show will spotlight Dump Matsumoto's incredible journey from an aspiring wrestler to a cult icon in Japanese women's pro wrestling. Originally dreaming of being a heroic character, Matsumoto makes the bold choice to embrace the role of a villain after losing her job. The official synopsis from Netflix's Media Center reads:

"The Queen of Villains tells the unknown story of Dump Matsumoto, a professional wrestler who spurred the women’s professional wrestling boom with her cult-like popularity and took Japan by storm in the 1980s. Nagayo Chigusa and Lioness Asuka are the members of Crush Gals, a Japanese pro-wrestling tag-team duo who became the pop icon by dominating the television bringing the social phenomenon."

- Netflix's Media Center

Who is Dump Matsumoto?

Dump Matsumoto, born on November 11, 1960, was a key figure in All Japan Women's Pro Wrestling during the 1980s.

Known for her fierce persona and unyielding presence in the ring, she led the infamous villainous stable known as the Atrocious Alliance, which included notable wrestlers Crane Yu, Condor Saito, and Bull Nakano.

Matsumoto's most famous rivalry was with the iconic Crush Gals (Nagayo Chigusa and Lioness Asuka), a feud that captivated audiences and defined an era of Japanese women's wrestling.

With her magnetic charisma and unforgettable matches, Dump Matsumoto not only defined an era of women's professional wrestling but also became a cultural icon.

Her legacy is set to be explored in the upcoming drama series, giving both long-time fans and newcomers a chance to relive her legendary career!

Who stars in the upcoming drama? (The Queen of Villains cast)

Netflix has given us a sneak peek at the talented cast set to bring these iconic wrestlers to life. Leading the pack is 33-year-old Japanese comedian Yuriyan Retriever, who will be stepping into the formidable shoes of Dump Matsumoto. Yuriyan Retriever is known for her roles in Oshi ga jôshi ni narimasite (2023), Supagetikôdo rabu (2021), and Jizoku Kanou na Koi desu ka? (2022).

Joining her are Erika Karata and Ayame Gôriki, who will portray the legendary pro-wrestling tag-team duo, the Crush Gals. These dynamic actresses are set to bring the fierce energy and charisma of Nagayo Chigusa and Lioness Asuka to the screen.

As we count down to the fall release, we anticipate more exciting cast announcements. For now, these reveals have certainly piqued our interest. Stay tuned -- this page will be updated with more casting news as it becomes available!

When is The Queen of Villains coming to Netflix?

The series, consisting of five gripping episodes, will premiere globally on Netflix this fall, starting September 19, 2024!

For viewers in the U.S., get ready to dive into this biographical drama from 3 a.m. ET / 12 a.m. PT on the big day.

International audiences, don’t worry—here’s when you can catch the show in your time zones:

Netflix Release Times:

• Hawaii: 9:00 p.m. HST on Monday, September 18
• Alaska: 11:00 p.m. AKDT on Monday, September 18
• West Coast of the US: 12:00 a.m. PT on Tuesday, September 19
• Mountain Time of the US: 2:00 a.m. MT on Tuesday, September 19
• Midwest of the US: 2:00 a.m. CT on Tuesday, September 19
• East Coast of the US: 3:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, September 19
• Brazil: 4:00 a.m. BRT on Tuesday, September 19
• England: 8:00 a.m. GMT on Tuesday, September 19
• France: 9:00 a.m. CEST on Tuesday, September 19
• Germany: 9:00 a.m. CEST on Tuesday, September 19
• Italy: 9:00 a.m. CEST on Tuesday, September 19
• Spain: 9:00 a.m. CEST on Tuesday, September 19
• Israel: 10:00 a.m. IDT on Tuesday, September 19
• South Africa: 10:00 a.m. SAST on Tuesday, September 19
• Dubai, UAE: 12:00 p.m. GST on Tuesday, September 19
• India: 1:30 p.m. IST on Tuesday, September 19
• South Korea: 4:00 p.m. KST on Tuesday, September 19
• Japan: 4:00 p.m. JST on Tuesday, September 19
• Sydney, Australia: 5:00 p.m. AEST on Tuesday, September 19

Mark your calendars and set your alarms -- The Queen of Villains is just around the corner!