MBC confirms the airing of episodes 5 and 6 of 'When the Phone Rings'
April's Lee Na Eun will be replaced from the upcoming SBS drama "Taxi Driver".
"Taxi Driver" is based from the webtoon of the same name by Carlos and Keukeu Jae Jin. The drama is about a mysterious taxi driver who plots revenge on behalf of victims that cannot get their justice from the law. Confirmed cast includes Lee Je Hoon, Esom, April's Lee Na Eun, Kim Eui Sung, and more.
Lee Na Eun got the role of a skilled hacker at Rainbow Taxi who breaks into systems to find and expose personal information.
On March 8, the drama production company released their statement regarding Lee Na Eun's position in the drama.
The statement follows:
"Hello. This is the production company of the upcoming Friday-Saturday SBS drama "Taxi Driver", Studio S.
The production team and Lee Na Eun's agency had a meeting and decided that idol-actress Lee Na Eun who has an important role in the drama will be replaced.
We are hoping for viewers understanding for releasing our decision belatedly. It took us time to thoroughly assess public sentiment regarding this situation and also finding the actress to replace Lee Na Eun.
"Taxi Driver" has done 60 percent of filming and all the scenes that Lee Na Eun was on will have a re-shoot with the new actress who will play her character.
Our production team will work hard to give the public a good drama. "
Thank you.
Lee Na Eun is currently embroiled in bullying controversy together with other April members. An alleged younger brother of former member Lee Hyun Joo posted proof of the bullying in an online community portal which spread quickly to the public. The public is currently siding with Lee Hyun Joo and old videos when Lee Hyun Joo was still part of the group are getting many views as netizens state that other April members made it too obvious that Lee Hyun Joo was purposely outcasted by them.
April's agency DSP Media has denied all the accusations and even stated that they will be taking legal action against Lee Hyun Joo's family.
All of Lee Na Eun's brand endorsements were put on halt due to the controversy. Her appearances on variety shows were edited out as well.
