BLACKPINK’s Jisoo is facing a mixed reaction from fans ahead of the March 6th premiere of her upcoming Netflix series, Boyfriend On Demand. While excitement for the romantic comedy is high, the inclusion of rapper Jay Park in a cameo role has sparked controversy and disappointment among some viewers.
The series, which follows webtoon producer Seo Mi-rae (played by Jisoo) as she explores virtual dating, teased a number of celebrity cameos in its recently released trailer on February 19th. Alongside actors Lee Soo-hyuk, Seo Kang-joon, Lee Jae-wook, and Ong Seong-wu, the appearance of Jay Park caught many off guard.
The surprise wasn’t necessarily due to Park’s star power, but rather a resurfacing of past controversies. Social media quickly lit up with fans expressing discomfort with his casting in a lighthearted, romantic role. Some argued that his inclusion felt incongruous, and voiced a preference for an actor without a controversial history. “They could’ve gotten another Idol Boyfriend, seriously why him?,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The backlash prompted a debate within the BLACKPINK fandom, with some defending the casting choice as a minor cameo that shouldn’t overshadow the series itself. “If you don’t like a certain guy, please just scroll past and don’t give him attention,” one user posted. “He’s only a cameo, not main cast. Let’s keep the focus on Jisoo and continue hyping up BOD.”
Boyfriend On Demand centers on Mi-rae’s journey to find love through a virtual dating app, contrasting the excitement of her digital dates with the loneliness of her real life. She finds an unexpected connection with Kyeong-nim, played by Seo In-guk, as they bond over late nights and work deadlines. The series promises a blend of fantasy and reality as Mi-rae navigates the complexities of modern romance.
The controversy surrounding Jay Park’s cameo highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by celebrities and the impact of past actions on present opportunities. While cameos are often seen as a fun way to engage fans and generate buzz, they can also become a focal point for criticism if the guest star carries a controversial reputation. The situation underscores the delicate balance between creative casting choices and public perception.
The series also stars Lee Soo-hyuk, known for his roles in dramas like ‘Doom At Your Service,’ and Lee Jae-wook, who will appear as a doctor in the series. The trailer showcased romantic moments between Jisoo and several of her virtual boyfriends, including Soo-hyuk, hinting at a playful and engaging storyline.
Despite the online debate, anticipation for Boyfriend On Demand remains strong. The series represents Jisoo’s latest venture into acting, following her debut in the drama Snowdrop. Fans are eager to see her take on the role of Seo Mi-rae and explore the unique premise of the show. The series is set to premiere on Netflix on .
The situation also comes amidst ongoing conversations about accountability within the K-pop industry and the expectations placed on idols. While some fans advocate for separating the art from the artist, others believe that casting decisions should reflect a commitment to ethical considerations. The debate surrounding Jay Park’s cameo is likely to continue as the premiere date approaches, adding another layer of complexity to the already highly anticipated series.
