Article: [Exclusive] Behind 'The Idol' appearance, the sensationalism controversy of "Jennie's choice"
Source: 10Asia
Blackpink Jennie herself decided to appear on controversial HBO drama 'The Idol.'
According to multiple entertainment industry insiders on the 7th, Jennie decided to appear on 'The Idol' after receiving an offer from American singer The Weeknd, the producer of the drama. Public opinion has been pouring out that YG is behind Jennie's appearance in the drama however an insider revealed that "Jennie's decision to appear on the 'The Idol' was solely a reflection of her own will and choice."
An official told 10Asia, "Jennie met The Weeknd in person and received an offer to appear in the drama. We know that she personally expressed her desire to do the work."
'The Idol,' which was invited to the non-competitive section of the 76th Cannes Film Festival, drew great attention as this was Jennie's first acting challenge. Jennie took her first steps as an actress on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival garnering attention from global fans.
In an interview at the Cannes Film Festival, Jennie stated, "I've loved Sam Levinson's work for a very long time and I've been fascinated by stories about the music industry. I thought it was an opportunity to be myself and be brave. I didn't train or prepare anything. Sam just wanted me to be myself. I've never experienced anything like this before. It's like breaking a wall for me."
However, criticisms are continuing to pour out over the drama's explicit sensationalism, misogynistic view, and male-oriented sexual fantasies. Jennie, who tried acting for the first time through 'The Idol' caused embarrassment with her 10-min cameo and 19+ dance performance. It's hard to even evaluate it because she didn't show or know much acting. In particular, there are many views that Jennie's "sex" dance with male dancers encourages excessive sexual objectification of Asian women causing harm.
