Japan’s BPO (Broadcasting Ethics & Program Improvement Organization) recently examined a specific late-night comedy anime “showcasing the coexistence of humans and beastfolk” following complaints about smoking and suspected drug use. Based on the description – which specifically mentions a female cat-eared lead who smokes frequently – the anime in question is widely believed to be Bibury Animation Studio’s Chainsmoker Cat (Yani Neko), which has been garnering attention for its controversial content ever since it began airing on national television and Netflix in early July.
The BPO is an independent third-party body that functions as a watchdog for Japanese broadcasters, managing public complaints and evaluating ethical compliance and the quality of TV programs, radio, and similar media. On July 28, the organization’s youth committee convened to discuss complaints regarding Chainsmoker Cat’s content – chiefly depictions of smoking and the “self-injection of drug-like substances.”
According to the published summary of the meeting, viewers questioned whether it was appropriate for a TV show to include repeated depictions of such scenes. While the committee’s opinions were somewhat divided, the general consensus seemed to lean toward upholding the show’s freedom of expression. The committee member overseeing the matter noted that by scheduling the anime in a late-night slot, when children are unlikely to be viewing, the producers demonstrated sufficient consideration.
Furthermore, they remarked that, “Since [the anime] does not explicitly state that illegal drugs are being used, I believe it falls within the acceptable range in terms of freedom of expression.” Another point raised was that, as an animated work, Chainsmoker Cat could not be expected to have the same influence on young people as live-action shows. Its content was considered to fall within the scope of creative expression.
On the flip side, it was also contended that a scene involving a self-administered injection “can hardly be interpreted as anything besides stimulant use,” and that “at a time when illegal drug use is a significant social issue, it is preferable to avoid broadcasting ambiguous content.”
In the end, however, it appears the anime will not face further investigation, as the committee chose not to move forward with the next deliberation phase on the matter.