40-Something Stars Shine in Romantic Dramas: 'Love on a Tightrope' and 'My Perfect Secretary'

Romantic dramas featuring actors in their 40s are capturing significant attention. tvN's 'Love on a Tightrope' is enjoying a successful run, while SBS's 'My Perfect Secretary' is generating buzz even before its premiere.

'Love on a Tightrope' (referred to as 'LOT') premiered on November 23 and has been climbing in both ratings and popularity. Starring Yumi Jung (born 1983) and Ji-hoon Ju (born 1982), the drama tells the story of Ji-won Seok and Ji-won Yoon, born on the same day to rival families. Their war-like romance unfolds as they reunite 18 years after a painful separation in their youth, striking a chord with viewers.

Yumi Jung, known for her unique performances in 'I Need Romance 2012' and 'Discovery of Love', has earned the title of 'rom-com master'. Ji-hoon Ju, who gained massive popularity with 'Princess Hours' in 2007, returns to the romance genre after 18 years, drawing significant attention. The chemistry between Ju and Jung is a major draw for audiences.

Their pairing has not disappointed. 'LOT' is praised for the actors' performances and chemistry, with ratings rising each week. Starting at 3.5% for its first episode, the show reached 5.5% by its sixth episode on December 8. It also ranked sixth in the TV-OTT integrated popularity index by Good Data Corporation's FUNdex for the first week of December, proving its popularity.

Both actors are in their early 40s, with only a one-year age difference. Yumi Jung debuted in the 2004 short film 'How to Operate a Polaroid Camera', while Ji-hoon Ju debuted in the 2006 drama 'Princess Hours'. Their similar career timelines contribute to their natural on-screen chemistry, enhancing the show's immersive experience.

The fact that both actors are single adds an intriguing element to the romance drama, sparking viewer interest in the possibility of an off-screen romance. This speculation enhances viewer engagement.

Set to premiere on January 3, 'My Perfect Secretary' also features a romance between 40-something actors. The drama follows Ji-yoon, a headhunting company CEO, and Eun-ho, her efficient secretary, in a close-knit care romance. Han Ji-min and Lee Jun-hyuk play the CEO and secretary, respectively.

Born in 1982 and 1984, Lee Jun-hyuk and Han Ji-min have a two-year age difference. Both have maintained a scandal-free career, earning public favor with their looks and acting skills. Lee Jun-hyuk, who debuted in Typhoon's 2007 music video 'I'll Wait...', has built a filmography primarily in genre works. He describes this project as his first proper romance role since debut.

'My Perfect Secretary' offers a fresh take by reversing the typical 'male CEO-female secretary' romance trope to 'female CEO-male secretary', piquing viewer curiosity and promising new entertainment. The teaser showcases the actors' appealing visuals and chemistry, heightening anticipation.

While other ongoing romantic dramas like 'The Call You're Making', 'Marry YOU', and 'The Tale of Mrs. Ok' receive praise for their compelling stories and direction, some viewers express disappointment over the significant age gaps between lead actors, which can hinder immersion.

In contrast, 'LOT' and 'My Perfect Secretary' feature leads of similar ages, with minimal age differences and comparable career and recognition levels. In the romance genre, actor chemistry is crucial, and the stable rapport among peers enhances the show's immersive quality.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr