Rising Star Lee Chae-min Replaces Park Sung-hoon in Highly Anticipated tvN Drama 'The Tyrant's Chef'

The upcoming tvN drama 'The Tyrant's Chef' is already generating buzz due to a major casting change. Originally set to star Park Sung-hoon, the lead role has now been taken over by Lee Chae-min, sparking both interest and concern among fans.

Scheduled to premiere on November 23, 'The Tyrant's Chef' is a fantasy romantic comedy about a top chef who time-slips to the past and encounters a tyrannical king with an impeccable palate. Park Sung-hoon was initially cast as the king, Yeon Hee-gun Lee Heon, but stepped down after a controversy involving inappropriate content on his social media last December. Lee Chae-min, born in 2000, has stepped into the role.

Lee Chae-min's character, Lee Heon, is portrayed as a potential great king with exceptional abilities and wisdom. However, his fiery and distrustful nature leads him to be known as a tyrant. The casting of Lee Chae-min has received mixed reactions, with some saying his image does not align with the character's charisma and tyrannical persona, especially given his age difference of ten years with co-star Im Yoon-ah.

Since his debut in 2021, Lee Chae-min has appeared in supporting roles in tvN dramas like 'Crash Course in Romance' and 'See You in My 19th Life.' He began taking on leading roles with Netflix's 'Hierarchy' last year. Despite being in the industry for five years, some critics argue that he lacks a standout filmography to justify a lead role.

A broadcasting insider commented, "The production team is deeply concerned due to the urgent casting change. While Lee Chae-min has potential, his lack of experience could be a drawback, especially in portraying such a strong character as a tyrant."

Netizens have expressed skepticism, with comments like "Lee Chae-min's acting skills are unproven" and "He lacks the gravitas of Park Sung-hoon." One viewer noted, "The lead casting change before the drama even starts is unsettling. It's risky to entrust such a significant project to a rookie actor."

However, there are also positive views on Lee Chae-min's casting. Some believe he brings a fresh perspective compared to previous tvN male leads, and his evolving acting skills are worth watching. Others suggest that his interpretation of the character could offer a unique charm.

The decision to cast Lee Chae-min following Park Sung-hoon's departure carries both risks and expectations. A broadcasting official stated, "In the face of sudden changes, someone needs to stabilize the situation. Whether Lee Chae-min can handle this responsibility will significantly impact the drama's overall tone."

As the drama faces challenges from the outset due to Park Sung-hoon's exit, all eyes are on Lee Chae-min to see if he can turn this crisis into an opportunity.

Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr