Noh Hong-chul’s TV return delayed
It will a bit longer before TV celebrity Noh Hong-chul makes a return to the small screen because the pilot program “Lazy Hitchhikers,” which featured Noh, did not get included as a regular TV show, according to broadcaster MBC.The two-part TV series, in which Noh and five other men in their 20s go backpacking across European countries with a minimum budget, was aired during the Chuseok Holiday in September.
Broadcasters usually air new shows during special holidays and they decide which to turn into regular shows.
The TV show documents young men, who call themselves “losers,” and their 20 days spent traveling in Europe.
“Lazy Hitchhikers” attracted much attention from the public and the media even before its official airing because it was Noh’s first project after he was caught drunk driving about a year ago.
But the much-anticipated show failed to attract high viewership. Many viewers said they could not relate to the young men and Noh, who are portrayed as good-for-nothing losers on the show but have their own jobs in real life.
Meanwhile, Noh pulled out of all the shows he was doing, such as the popular reality TV show “Infinite Challenge” and “I Live Alone” last November after he was caught driving under the influence of alcohol.
Some of Noh’s fans were collecting signatures online to petition for him to remain a member of “Infinite Challenge,” but it had no effect.
Noh debuted in 2004 as a reporter on a cable channel TV show and he carved a name for himself with his witty and talkative character.
BY SUNG SO-YOUNG
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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