SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – MARCH 14: BLACKPINK Jennie attends the photocall for HERA at SJ Kunsthalle on … [+]
The Weeknd’s highly anticipated television show The Idol finally premiered this past weekend, and it has sparked a wide range of opinions among viewers and critics. While the show’s premiere garnered decent ratings, the reviews have been lukewarm at best, with some fans expressing their enjoyment while others, particularly those vocal on social media, voicing their disappointment. Critics, too, have been less than enthusiastic, delivering a clear thumbs-down in some cases.
Amidst the mixed reception, one actor of The Idol is emerging as a standout performer. Jennie, known primarily as one of the four members of the popular K-pop group Blackpink, has ventured into the world of acting via the series. Her portrayal of the character Dyanne has garnered praise from both viewers and the media, solidifying her position as a rising star. Even if The Idol faces cancellation after its first season, potentially impacting the careers of those involved, it is certainly going to be a significant milestone—and launchpad—for Jennie.
Jennie’s success in the music industry is undeniable, making her decision to explore acting a logical step in her career. Venturing into new territories is a common trajectory for accomplished artists, and acting has long been a proven avenue for artistic growth and reinvention.
Given Jennie’s talent and widespread recognition, she could have chosen from a multitude of acting opportunities. The Idol, although not a critical favorite, provides a highly visible platform for her debut. What better way to embark on her acting journey than by starring in a show that has captured the attention of the public, regardless of the reasons behind the buzz?
While many South Korean projects were undoubtedly considered by Jennie and her team, she sought to break away from the confines of her established success in her home country. She clearly chose not to be another K-pop musician-turned-actor who also stars in K-dramas and K-comedies only. That would have been an easy jump for her—one that many in her field have done before—but Jennie set her sights higher.
Jennie’s prominence in the Asian nation left little uncharted territory for her to explore. Sure, she could have created a new career for herself, but she’s so well-known and so successful in South Korea, she doesn’t necessarily need to focus on that market only, especially when trying something new. Instead, she now aims to conquer the American entertainment industry, reaching out to new audiences and expanding her fanbase on a global scale.
Should The Idol disappear tomorrow, Jennie has already introduced herself to American audiences, and done so very well. She’s set herself up for more acting gigs in the Western world, and even if that doesn’t work out, she’s surely going to be even more in-demand back in South Korea, where both music and acting opportunities await whenever she likes.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2023/06/08/blackpinks-jennie-made-the-right-move-starting-her-acting-career-on-the-idol/