AJ and the Queen
Worth a closer look
Ages 10–13First shown 2020
Ruby Red, a bigger-than-life but down-on-her-luck drag queen who travels across America from club to club in a rundown 1990's R/V with her unlikely sidekick AJ, a recently orphaned, tough-talking, scrappy 11-year-old stowaway. As these two misfits, one tall, one small, travel from city to city, Ruby's message of love and acceptance winds up touching people and changing their lives for the better.
Our verdict
- Good influence 3/5
- Parent appeal 3/5
- Well made 2/5
Grating audio
Reviewers describe the series as an ambitious mix of campy road-trip comedy and sincere emotional drama centered on themes of acceptance and found family. While the dazzling drag performances and heartwarming messages are widely praised, the show is frequently criticised for its bloated episode lengths, inconsistent writing, and a central child character whose constant shouting and abrasive behaviour many found grating. It offers a unique, inclusive story, though viewers are split on whether its emotional depth outweighs its repetitive and sometimes 'chintzy' execution.
Why these scores
Good influence
Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?
3out of 5
The series is built on a strong foundation of love, self-acceptance, and the beauty of chosen families, with many reviewers praising its inclusive and compassionate spirit. However, the score is tempered by a central child character frequently described as a foul-mouthed and disrespectful 'brat' whose tantrums can be exhausting. While the overarching messages are positive, some find the moralising to be heavy-handed or undercut by the child's recurring bad behaviour.
Parent appeal
Will you enjoy watching it with them?
3out of 5
Reviewers are deeply divided; many find the show to be a heartwarming and emotionally resonant 'dramedy' that adults can enjoy for its wit and sincerity. Conversely, a significant number of viewers describe it as a tedious 'slog' with episodes that feel far too long and repetitive. The presence of risqué humour and mature themes like addiction adds a layer of adult interest, though it may make the show feel uneven for a younger audience.
Well made
Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?
2out of 5
The show features high-quality musical and drag performances, vibrant costumes, and a lead child actor who many critics found impressive. However, these highlights are often overshadowed by complaints of poor writing, clunky dialogue, and inconsistent pacing that makes episodes feel bloated. Many reviews note that the production can feel 'chintzy' or like a dated made-for-TV movie, suggesting a lack of consistent polish.
Watch-outs
Overstimulating: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Toy-led: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Grating audio
There is a very consistent pattern of reviewers describing the child character, AJ, as incredibly shrill. Numerous sources highlight frequent screaming, shouting of lines, and a whiny or obnoxious vocal delivery that many parents and critics found insufferable to listen to.
Where to watch
Stream for free
- Not that we know of
Stream with a subscription
- Not that we know of
Rent or buy
- Not that we know of
DVD and Blu-ray
Last updated 18 October 2026.