For K-drama followers, it is not a mystery as to why the airing of “Anti-Fan” was delayed. Not picked up by any of the TV/cable stations, this drama which was due to air in 2018, took more than two years to reach us through leading streaming sites. Regardless of rhyme nor reason, I am so EXTREMELY GLAD that this drama fell onto our lap this year in 2021. Right after the 1st episode, I already knew there was no need for my magnifying glass and my di-section tools. From 2nd episode onwards, I was so enamored by the characters and mood of the drama, I could actually just sit back, relax and enjoy the drama effortlessly, week after week. Simply my most favorite Rom-Com in 2021.

Though categorized as a Rom-Com, this drama carries poignant elements on life and does give us an insight about sacrifices on being a celebrity, the politics of the entertainment industry, the level of fans love and obsession, that has its ups and downs, friendship, jealousy, trust, trauma and how does this one person Hoo Joon (played by Choi Tae Joon) maneuvers his path with everything that went so wrong, to make things right. CTJ is really well suited to this character and carries out his role to perfection. The antagonist in this drama is Jae Joon (played by Hwang Chan Sung), whose friendship turned bad with Hoo Joon. Again, another well placed actor, as HCS also did a most believable job for us to really hate his character JJ to the point of feeling sorry for him. What is a drama without challenging turns and the second leads story definitely took us to the edge, which takes those who have lived a little to understand.

And now, the back story. In Hyung (IH), Hoo Joon (HJ) and Jae Joon (JJ) all met whilst they were training at the Talent Agency Academy and became close friends. Then IH and HJ fell in love with each other and became a couple. JJ had secretly loved IH first, so his heart was broken when he lost her to HJ. Then suddenly, HJ career started to take off, leaving IH and JJ behind. A lot was left un-said which spiraled into a load of mis-understanding, hurt and sense of betrayal.

Fast forward to 6 years later, which is how the drama starts, HJ returns to Korea and finds that IH is now in a relationship with JJ. As HJ has a better understanding of the entertainment industry, he could see that JJ is not helping IH. With IH being his first love, HJ still cares for her well-being and gets upset when he sees IH being taken advantage of by JJ.

And in all this mess, in-walks Guen Yong (played by Choi Soo Young), the character which is forefront to the title “So I Married An Anti-Fan”. Ambitious and naïve, she is a rookie writer for a magazine. Emotional in her thoughts and writing, she chanced upon a scene between HJ and IH. Without checking the facts, she tattled on HJ causing a rippling negative effect on HJ’s impression of her as well as his supportive fans, hence gaining herself the title of "Anti-Fan".

Reaping the rewards of it’s aftermath, a reality show was suggested starring HJ and GY. GY by then lost her job, had no money. HJ reluctantly accepted to do the show with GY (to avoid letting the show cast his first love IH). Two really reluctant people, both who detest each other at every turn. The energy between these two ML is insanely clichéd, cute and delightful to watch. Something I have not seen in a long while when it comes to all the facial expressions and body language. Really refreshing and many memorable moments. Even the songs which would normally give you goosebumps, became comfortable to listen, with catchy tunes and feel good energy befitting the tone of the drama.

This drama had so much material to work on, with many other stories connected and yet, really well executed. I truly suggest you do not let this drama slip you by especially if you are wanting to take a break from all the heavy dramas. This is one drama that will not disappoint from start to finish.