On June 26, KBS aired a special episode of "Producer," which included outtakes (NG) and commentary from the production team. Whereas episode 12 recorded the rating high of 17.7 percent, the special yielded 5.5 percent in nationwide viewership.
KBS included scenes that were previously aired with segments of commentary. International press coverage of the series, particularly coverage by Chinese media. While domestic ratings of "Producer" continuously shifted, the series was a pan-Asian successful, drawing a huge response from audiences in China.
The special was highly anticipated, but audiences in Korea reacted to it, with mixed responses. Citing that the special episode fell short of expectations, the Korean outlet TV Report criticized the structure of its structure and the lack of additional footage, beyond outtakes. "100 minutes of awkwardness in 'Producer Special' saved only by Kim Soo Hyun," said TV Report writer Ann Bebe.
"Producer" successfully concluded on June 20 with extended footage. The docu-drama featured several love lines, including the noona romance of Baek Seung Chan (Kim Soo Hyun) and Tak Ye Jin (Gong Hyo Jin). In the end, Seung Chan was rejected by Ye Jin, who realized that her 20-year crush on Ra Joon Mo (Cha Tae Hyun) was reciprocated.
Audiences who were rooting for the Umbrella Couple were thrilled with the conclusion, as Cindy (IU) and Seung Chan developed a tentative relationship.
What were your thoughts on the "Producer Special?" Do you think there should be a second season of the show?
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About the writer: Adrienne Stanley is a contributing editor for KDramastars. She is also a contributing writer for Kpopstarz, MTV Iggy and CJ Entertainment's KCON blog. Her passions include a love of K-pop and Asian drama. When she is not writing, she is hanging out on Twitter (@retrogirladdy).