10th anniversary, 500th episode. The rare achievement in the entertainment industry has been completed by 'Mask Singer.' How did the production team feel reflecting on that historic heritage? Producer Jang Hyo-jong shared his thoughts.
The MBC entertainment program 'Mask Singer' will celebrate its 500th episode on the 22nd. It first aired on April 5, 2015, marking its 10th anniversary this year. Stars who hide their age, status, and occupation showcase their talents only through their voices in 'Mask Singer,' which has become a beloved national program that no longer needs explanation. Moreover, in a current entertainment market where shorter seasons are common, 'Mask Singer' stands out as a rare long-running show, consistently captivating audiences on Sunday nights. Therefore, OSEN recently met with Producer Jang Hyo-jong, who directs 'Mask Singer,' at the MBC headquarters in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, to reflect on the show's remarkable achievements.
Producer Jang Hyo-jong, who conducted the special recording for the 10th anniversary and 500th episode on the 12th, noted about the special recording, "I think it went quite well. Usually, we record with 99 panelists, including celebrity judges, but this time, to celebrate the significance of the 500th episode, we gathered even more people than usual. Maybe that's why we felt a stronger reaction from the audience."
Given that long-running entertainment shows are uncommon, special features honoring them are rare as well. In fact, the 10th anniversary and 500th episode special of 'Mask Singer' felt truly special. From EXID's Solji, the 'invitation king' who opened the show during its pilot phase, to Kim Yeon-woo, who led the early syndrome of 'Mask Singer,' as well as Yoon Min of Touched, who holds the record for most consecutive wins at 9, and singer Jung Joon-il, and even winners who broke the stereotypes of idol origins, such as Kang Seung-yoon of Winner and Yoo Hwe-seung of N.Flying. Additionally, singers Kim Tae-yeon, Kim Pil, Roy Kim, Park Ki-young, Baek Hyung-hoon, So Hyang, Super Junior's Eunhyuk, Jang Min-ho, Hwang Min-ho, and dancer Bata attended, creating a festive atmosphere.
In particular, this special was designed to be a 'festival' rather than a 'competition.' In this regard, Producer Jang Hyo-jong stated, "In previous anniversary specials of 'Mask Singer,' the format was always similar. There were special stages, and we maintained the existing competition format. However, there aren't many entertainment programs that reach their 10th anniversary like 'Mask Singer,' and we have a unique history. Above all, our program's dedicated audience enjoys revisiting the details of its history. Therefore, to commemorate the 10th anniversary, we thought of ways to reflect on 'Mask Singer's history, focusing on calling back those who had sung on stage, creating a device to bring back the ones audiences wished to see."
He also emphasized, "One realistic reason is that every program wishes for consistent good ratings over 10 years. However, all entertainment shows survive on buzz, and through this special of 'Mask Singer,' I wanted to show that we are still alive and well."
Producer Jang Hyo-jong laughed as he expressed, "The reaction that makes our production team the most upset is 'Is 'Mask Singer' still going on?' That's a comment that hits home for me." He added, "'Mask Singer' is a program with a remarkable history of talented individuals that have passed through, and it's still a rarity in today's trend as a show that families can gather around without discomfort. I want to show through the 10th anniversary special that we are worthy of this history."
With such a stellar lineup, was it difficult to secure guests? Producer Jang Hyo-jong responded, "This format without a competition aspect was new for 'Mask Singer,' but it was important to invite those who typically don't appear, similar to how Baby V.O.X reformed for special broadcasts. Thankfully, those we asked were willing to join us."
Producer Jang Hyo-jong additionally shared, "Solji performed the opening stage; she has been with us since the pilot as the inaugural king. Looking back at the past 10 years, I got to see those who have continued to support 'Mask Singer.' It was fascinating to see past kings like Kim Gu-ra, Lee Yoon-seok, Shin Bong-sun, and Yoo Yeong-seok reminiscing about their first performances. They even recalled what they said back then. It was a remarkable and touching experience for us as producers."
(Continued in Exclusive Interview Part 2.)
[Photo] Provided by MBC.
[OSEN]