Actor Lee Chae-min captivated weekend viewers with the charm of Lee Heon in 'The Tyrant's Chef'.
In the tvN weekend drama 'The Tyrant's Chef' (directed by Jang Tae-yu, written by fGRD, planned by Studio Dragon, produced by Film Greeda, Jung Universe), Lee Chae-min is passionately portraying the character of Lee Heon, the prince, oscillating between the fierce charisma of a tyrant and vivid food-eating performances, winning the hearts of viewers.
Previously, Lee Chae-min prepared thoroughly to embody the character of Lee Heon by learning horseback riding, archery, swordsmanship, and even the traditional dance Cheoyongmu. Director Jang Tae-yu also expressed admiration, stating, "With a Superman-like physique and a powerful voice, he delivers delicate performances. He is a hardworking actor whose future is even more anticipated," which piqued curiosity about the character Lee Heon that Lee Chae-min will create.
Thanks to these efforts, Lee Heon emerged as a character with unpredictable actions, providing a twist of fun. He strongly pressured the loyal subjects opposing the royal decree, asserting the king's authority, and ultimately revealed his tyrannical side by enforcing his will.
Additionally, he engaged in a psychological battle with the royal matriarch, Queen Dowager Inju (played by Seo Yi-sook), who sought to test the culinary skills of Yeon Ji-young (played by Lim Yoon-a), while threatening to cut off the arms of chefs who lost in the competition, heightening the tension. The panic-stricken gaze of Lee Heon, triggered by the story of his deceased mother told by Kang Mok-joo (played by Kang Han-na), hinted at the deep-seated wounds within him.
Although he is a tyrant that no one in the royal family can control, the gradual change brought about by Yeon Ji-young's cooking provided a sweet thrill for viewers. From their first meeting to entering the palace, he lost his royal demeanor and bickered with Yeon Ji-young, eliciting laughter.
Despite constantly threatening, "Do you want to die?" while playfully tussling, Lee Heon became completely enamored with the taste of the food prepared by Yeon Ji-young. True to his absolute palate, he accurately identified the flavors intended by Yeon Ji-young and his hearty laughter while imagining deer frolicking in the meadow as he ate venison provoked bursts of laughter.
In particular, a scene where he recalls his mother while watching Yeon Ji-young feed him foreshadowed that Lee Heon's heart was already beginning to warm to her. At the end of the fourth episode, Lee Heon's sorrowful gaze as he accidentally kissed Yeon Ji-young while drinking to soothe his loneliness deeply resonated with everyone, making his true feelings even more intriguing.
The various facets of the unpredictable character Lee Heon are portrayed even more attractively through actor Lee Chae-min's delicate performance. Following the kiss between Lee Heon and Yeon Ji-young, a new turning point between the two is anticipated, and the delicious romance of Lee Heon, completed by Lee Chae-min's passionate efforts, is eagerly awaited.
'The Tyrant's Chef' will air its fifth episode on the 6th at 9:10 PM.
[Kim Mi-ji, Star Today Reporter]
