'In 2025?' Upcoming K-drama To the Moon teaser slammed for racism, MBC deletes video after backlash
The trailer, which features Lee Sun-bin, Ra Mi-ran, Jo A-ram, and Kim Young-dae parodying vintage Korean ice cream ads from the 1980s and 1990s, has gone viral. But rather than being meant to be humorous, the imagery—which includes genie lights, flute music, exaggerated dancing, and Aladdin costumes—has come under fire for reducing Middle Eastern and South Asian culture to archaic stereotypes.
Global backlash intensifies
Within hours of its release, the clip sparked fury across social media, with international fans denouncing it as offensive and tone-deaf. Many South Asian viewers in particular expressed deep disappointment, accusing the broadcaster of recycling harmful stereotypes for cheap laughs.
Some of the harshest comments included:
If you still can't tell cultural differences apart in 2025 and rely on stereotypes, you should leave the media industry.
MBC is doing a cheap Aladdin cosplay. It's completely racist and ridiculous.
They get offended when mistaken for Chinese or Japanese, but freely mock other cultures with stereotypes.
Making caricatures of cultures is rude and racist.
MBC forced to act
Given that K-dramas are now available to viewers worldwide through Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime, cultural awareness is becoming more and more important during the production process. International audiences perceived the spoof as ridiculing and oversimplifying a culture, whilst Korean viewers might have found it humorous and nostalgic.
New MBC drama To The Moon receives backlash over their depiction of middle eastern countrieshttps://t.co/oyxcdIwiWn pic.twitter.com/gfuhzuHBSR
MBC removed the teaser from its official YouTube and social media sites as the backlash grew. The production crew recognized the problem in a statement to MyDaily.
"The teaser for To the Moon was created as a parody of popular 1980s–1990s ice cream commercials, inspired by the show's setting in a confectionery company. However, we failed to consider how it might be perceived in other cultures. The video has since been deleted, and we will be more cautious and considerate moving forward to prevent discomfort."
For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Economic Times
25 minutes ago
- Economic Times
A Man On the Inside Season 2 release date revealed: Ted Danson back on a new case
A Man On the Inside Season 2 release date revealed: Ted Danson back on a new case | First look Streaming giant Netflix has set November 20, 2025, as the premiere date for the eagerly awaited second season of its wholesome comedy series, A Man On the Inside . The series, created by acclaimed writer-producer Michael Schur, brings veteran actor Ted Danson back in the lead role, with Season 2 promising fresh mysteries, new faces, and a special on-screen reunion with his real-life wife, Mary upcoming season shifts the backdrop from a retirement community to a university campus, while retaining the charm, humor, and emotional undercurrents that defined its debut. In A Man On the Inside Season 2 , Danson's character Charles Nieuwendyk, a retired professor turned undercover investigator, goes undercover at Wheeler College. This time, his mission involves unraveling the truth behind a series of mysterious blackmail messages sent to the college's president, played by Max the heart of suspicion is billionaire philanthropist Brad Vinick (Gary Cole), who is offering a lucrative donation to the institution. Questions arise about whether Vinick's generosity conceals ulterior college setting injects new energy into the narrative while giving Charles a chance to navigate fresh dynamics, blending campus intrigue with the heartwarming style fans have come to expect. While Season 2 introduces a new location, it also ensures continuity with beloved characters from the first season. Returning cast members include: Lilah Richcreek Estrada as Julie, Charles' investigative partner. Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Emily, Charles' daughter, who finds inspiration in her father's late-life reinvention. Stephanie Beatriz as Didi, director of the Pacific View Retirement Community. Stephen McKinley Henderson as Calbert, Charles' trusted friend from the nursing home. Their stories will continue to evolve even as Charles embarks on his latest case, highlighting themes of family, friendship, and second the most notable addition this season is the arrival of Mary Steenburgen, Danson's wife of nearly three decades, who plays Mona, a free-spirited music teacher at Wheeler zest for life awakens long-buried emotions in Charles, who has struggled to move forward following the death of his wife. The romantic angle adds a layer of personal conflict to the teased that Mona's role might blur the lines between ally and suspect. 'Is she genuinely catching his eye or intentionally diverting his focus?' the streamer asked in promotional notes, hinting at a compelling twist. For fans, Steenburgen's appearance is not just a casting decision but a reunion decades in the making. The couple, who first worked together on the 1983 film Cross Creek , have been married since 1995. Their chemistry is expected to lend authenticity and warmth to their shared screen time. Season 2 also brings a roster of new characters and guest stars. Jason Mantzoukas, familiar to audiences from The Good Place , Brooklyn Nine-Nine , and Parks & Recreation , joins the ensemble, along with Constance Marie, David Strathairn, Michaela Conlin, Lisa Gilroy, Madison Hu, and Sam broad ensemble promises a mix of comedy, tension, and heartfelt moments. Netflix has kept some guest appearances under wraps, heightening anticipation among Charles dives into the blackmail mystery, the narrative also explores personal growth arcs for supporting characters. Emily (Ellis) embarks on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering a passion she had long set aside. Julie (Estrada) reconnects with a significant figure from her past, opening doors for her professional and emotional growth. These storylines add depth beyond the central case, ensuring that Season 2 balances humor, drama, and 1 of A Man On the Inside was inspired by the Oscar-nominated documentary The Mole Agent , chronicling an elderly man's undercover mission in a retirement community. Showrunner Michael Schur, known for creating beloved comedies such as The Good Place and Parks and Recreation , has emphasized that Charles' age and life experience are central to the show's appeal. 'What you have at the end of Season 1 is a 76-year-old man with a new lease on life and a new sense of purpose,' Schur had said in an earlier interview. 'There are endless stories to tell once you give a character that kind of fresh start.'The college setting in Season 2 illustrates that shift — from investigating missing items in a nursing home to untangling academic scandals at the announcement, Netflix unveiled first look photos from the upcoming season. These images capture Charles reuniting with familiar faces, including his friend Calbert and Didi from the retirement community, while also teasing his encounters with Mona at Wheeler stills emphasize the blend of comedy and heart that defines the series, showcasing both lighter moments and the emotional depth of Danson's character. Ted Danson returns in A Man on the Inside Season 2 on NOVEMBER 20! Now with Mary Steenburgen, Max Greenfield, and so much more. — Netflix (@netflix) August 21, 2025 With A Man On the Inside season 2 locked for November 20, Netflix appears confident in the series' longevity. Schur himself has expressed eagerness to continue developing stories for Danson's character well into the future.'If Netflix wanted this to run until 2050, I'd sign up,' he once remarked, underscoring the creative potential of Charles' journey, as mentioned in a report by Hollywood Reporter. With a premiere set for November 20, A Man On the Inside Season 2 blends new mysteries, returning characters, and an emotional subplot featuring Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen's long-awaited on-screen reunion. Fans can expect eight episodes of humor, heart, and suspense, as Charles Nieuwendyk once again navigates life's complexities while solving a case that could change his future. The new season will release on November 20, 2025, on Netflix. This season is set at Wheeler College, where Charles investigates blackmail threats against the college president.
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Death by Lightning release date confirmed: Cast, plot and all about Netflix series
Death by Lightning is all set for its Netflix premiere. Fans are hyped about this miniseries, particularly because it has been produced by the creators of Game of Thrones, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss. The streaming giant announced the release date via social media. Death by Lightning drops this November.(X/@Netflix) The miniseries Death by Lightning, based on Candice Millard's 2011 nonfiction book, Destiny of the Republic, will drop on Netflix on November 6 this year. Created by Mike Makowsky, the four-episode historical drama will explore the assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th US President. The cast of Death by Lightning According to IMDB, while Michael Shannon plays the protagonist James A. Garfield, Matthew Macfadyen has been cast as Charles J. Guiteau, the man who assassinated Garfield at Long Branch on September 19, 1881. Also read: Is Netflix's Hostage inspired by true events? Here's what we know about Surrane Jones' limited series On the other hand, Nick Offerman will be seen as Chester A. Arthur. Betty Gilpin has the role of Lucretia Garfield, the wife of President Garfield. And while Bradley Whitford has been cast as James Blaine, Shea Whigham plays the role of Roscoe Conkling. The book Death by Lightning is based on Following its release in 2011, Candice Millard's Destiny of the Republic received critical acclaim. The Washington Post praised its 'fresh narrative' centered around the 'most dramatic days in US presidential history'. Among other accolades, Destiny of the Republic received the prestigious Edgar Award and the PEN Center USA award. Netflix announced last year that it planned to adapt the book into a miniseries, starring Michael Shannon as President James A. Garfield. FAQs: When will Death by Lightning premiere on Netflix? Death by Lightning will premiere on Netflix on November 6 this year. How is Death by Lightning related to Game of Thrones? The creators of Game of Thrones – David Benioff and D.B. Weiss – have produced Death by Lightning. What book is Death by Lightning based on? Death by Lightning is based on Candice Millard's 2011 nonfiction book. What is the plot of Death by Lightning? Death by Lightning explores the assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th US President. Who plays the role of President James A. Garfield in Netflix's Death by Lightning? Michael Shannon plays President James A. Garfield in Netflix's Death by Lightning.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
A Man On the Inside Season 2 release date revealed: Ted Danson back on a new case
Streaming giant Netflix has set November 20, 2025, as the premiere date for the eagerly awaited second season of its wholesome comedy series, A Man On the Inside . The series, created by acclaimed writer-producer Michael Schur, brings veteran actor Ted Danson back in the lead role, with Season 2 promising fresh mysteries, new faces, and a special on-screen reunion with his real-life wife, Mary Steenburgen. The upcoming season shifts the backdrop from a retirement community to a university campus, while retaining the charm, humor, and emotional undercurrents that defined its debut. A Man On the Inside Season 2: A Fresh Case at Wheeler College In A Man On the Inside Season 2 , Danson's character Charles Nieuwendyk, a retired professor turned undercover investigator, goes undercover at Wheeler College. This time, his mission involves unraveling the truth behind a series of mysterious blackmail messages sent to the college's president, played by Max Greenfield. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Remember Him? Sit Down Before You See What He Looks Like Now 33 Bridges Undo At the heart of suspicion is billionaire philanthropist Brad Vinick (Gary Cole), who is offering a lucrative donation to the institution. Questions arise about whether Vinick's generosity conceals ulterior motives. The college setting injects new energy into the narrative while giving Charles a chance to navigate fresh dynamics, blending campus intrigue with the heartwarming style fans have come to expect. Live Events A Man On the Inside: The Return of Familiar Faces While Season 2 introduces a new location, it also ensures continuity with beloved characters from the first season. Returning cast members include: Lilah Richcreek Estrada as Julie, Charles' investigative partner. Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Emily, Charles' daughter, who finds inspiration in her father's late-life reinvention. Stephanie Beatriz as Didi, director of the Pacific View Retirement Community. Stephen McKinley Henderson as Calbert, Charles' trusted friend from the nursing home. Their stories will continue to evolve even as Charles embarks on his latest case, highlighting themes of family, friendship, and second chances. A Man On the Inside Season 2: Mary Steenburgen Joins the Cast Perhaps the most notable addition this season is the arrival of Mary Steenburgen, Danson's wife of nearly three decades, who plays Mona, a free-spirited music teacher at Wheeler College. Mona's zest for life awakens long-buried emotions in Charles, who has struggled to move forward following the death of his wife. The romantic angle adds a layer of personal conflict to the investigation. Netflix teased that Mona's role might blur the lines between ally and suspect. 'Is she genuinely catching his eye or intentionally diverting his focus?' the streamer asked in promotional notes, hinting at a compelling twist. For fans, Steenburgen's appearance is not just a casting decision but a reunion decades in the making. The couple, who first worked together on the 1983 film Cross Creek , have been married since 1995. Their chemistry is expected to lend authenticity and warmth to their shared screen time. A Man On the Inside Season 2: Ensemble Cast Expands Season 2 also brings a roster of new characters and guest stars. Jason Mantzoukas, familiar to audiences from The Good Place , Brooklyn Nine-Nine , and Parks & Recreation , joins the ensemble, along with Constance Marie, David Strathairn, Michaela Conlin, Lisa Gilroy, Madison Hu, and Sam Huntington. The broad ensemble promises a mix of comedy, tension, and heartfelt moments. Netflix has kept some guest appearances under wraps, heightening anticipation among viewers. A Man On the Inside Season 2: Storylines Beyond the Case While Charles dives into the blackmail mystery, the narrative also explores personal growth arcs for supporting characters. Emily (Ellis) embarks on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering a passion she had long set aside. Julie (Estrada) reconnects with a significant figure from her past, opening doors for her professional and emotional growth. These storylines add depth beyond the central case, ensuring that Season 2 balances humor, drama, and relatability. A Man On the Inside Season 2: From Nursing Homes to Campuses Season 1 of A Man On the Inside was inspired by the Oscar-nominated documentary The Mole Agent , chronicling an elderly man's undercover mission in a retirement community. Showrunner Michael Schur, known for creating beloved comedies such as The Good Place and Parks and Recreation , has emphasized that Charles' age and life experience are central to the show's appeal. 'What you have at the end of Season 1 is a 76-year-old man with a new lease on life and a new sense of purpose,' Schur had said in an earlier interview. 'There are endless stories to tell once you give a character that kind of fresh start.' The college setting in Season 2 illustrates that shift — from investigating missing items in a nursing home to untangling academic scandals at Wheeler. A Man On the Inside Season 2: First Look Photos Released Alongside the announcement, Netflix unveiled first look photos from the upcoming season. These images capture Charles reuniting with familiar faces, including his friend Calbert and Didi from the retirement community, while also teasing his encounters with Mona at Wheeler College. The stills emphasize the blend of comedy and heart that defines the series, showcasing both lighter moments and the emotional depth of Danson's character. Ted Danson returns in A Man on the Inside Season 2 on NOVEMBER 20! Now with Mary Steenburgen, Max Greenfield, and so much more. — Netflix (@netflix) August 21, 2025 A Man On the Inside Seaon 2: A Long-Term Bet for Netflix With A Man On the Inside season 2 locked for November 20, Netflix appears confident in the series' longevity. Schur himself has expressed eagerness to continue developing stories for Danson's character well into the future. 'If Netflix wanted this to run until 2050, I'd sign up,' he once remarked, underscoring the creative potential of Charles' journey, as mentioned in a report by Hollywood Reporter. With a premiere set for November 20, A Man On the Inside Season 2 blends new mysteries, returning characters, and an emotional subplot featuring Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen's long-awaited on-screen reunion. Fans can expect eight episodes of humor, heart, and suspense, as Charles Nieuwendyk once again navigates life's complexities while solving a case that could change his future. FAQs When does A Man On the Inside Season 2 premiere? The new season will release on November 20, 2025, on Netflix. What is the setting for Season 2? This season is set at Wheeler College, where Charles investigates blackmail threats against the college president.
