Lee Jang Woo is facing backlash over casting claims and his on-set attitude in My Only One.
The actor recently revealed on a YouTube series how he landed the role of Wang Dae Ryuk. He said he texted the drama’s writer late at night after returning from the military, begging for the part.
“I was discharged from the military at 33, but no one was looking for me. Then I heard that writer Kim Sa Kyung would work for ‘My Only One’.
I drank a lot at night and sent a long text message saying, ‘Please save me.’ I told her that although no one was looking to cast me, I would work hard.”
— Lee Jang Woo
Production reportedly halted briefly as they debated casting him, which sparked controversy online. Netizens accused him of using connections to push out other actors.
Lee Jang Woo also stirred up more criticism over his appearance. Despite writer and director requests to lose weight, he refused, saying he wanted a bulkier look to fit his character as head of a company.
The writer and director wanted me to lose weight, but I intentionally didn’t. I felt that the character’s role as the head of a company would look better with a bit more build rather than being just skinny and pretty.
— Lee Jang Woo
Comments flooded in:
- “After hearing the story about how he stole the role after casting for the drama was complete, I no longer like him.”
- “It might be fine not to lose weight for a minor role, but for the main role, that’s a bit…”
- “He should just play another role instead of the lead.”
- “Isn’t being seen a part of his job? I mean, unless his role calls for gaining weight…”
- “All I can think is that this is so unprofessional.”
The situation is gaining traction as netizens continue to monitor Lee Jang Woo’s casting story and on-screen image. No official statement has been made by the actor or production team.
