KBS is taking a page from the tvN playbook when it comes to casting an idol in a lead role and then backtracking due to the blow back. News broke on Monday that KBS had offered the female lead in upcoming Mon-Tues drama Taming Mother-in-Law (formerly called Killing Mother-in-Law) to Dasom of girl group Sistar. This is the new experimental drama with a scheduled 12-episode run (much like recent KBS variety drama Producer) which had to change its name since it was so misleading and freaked people out what with the killing and mother in the same phrase.

News of Dasom’s maybe casting got the K-netizens riled up in the same way when Hyeri of Girl’s Day was initially floated for upcoming Answer Me 1988. In that case, the producers of AM1998 back pedaled and claimed Hyeri only auditioned, but then months later ended up casting her as the female lead anyway after the initial furor died down. In this case, the drama Taming Mother-in-Law is being directed by the PD of KBS daily drama Melody of Love, which starred Dasom, so her casting makes sense from that angle even if there is much doubt about her ability to headline a prime time drama. KBS has given the official statement that Dasom’s casting isn’t finalized yet, which is basically telling everyone to stop freaking out for now. Continue reading →