KISS OF LIFE's recent YouTube collaboration has sparked significant backlash among netizens. The girl group appeared on the popular YouTube channel IShowSpeed, hosted by Darren Watkins Jr., where they engaged in casual chat, learned choreography, and witnessed Watkins showcase his acrobatic skills.
While some fans enjoyed the unexpected collaboration, a larger portion expressed their disapproval. Watkins, known for his controversial persona and provocative comments, raised concerns among netizens regarding the decision to feature KISS OF LIFE on his channel.
필름카메라로 기록한 4월의 추억📸 5월에도 쭈욱 엠투와 함께해요❣ #4월의엠투 #M2film #릴레이댄스어게인 #KISSOFLIFE #키스오브라이프 @KISSOFLIFE_S2 pic.twitter.com/v8QjhKye4f
— MPD(엠피디) (@M2MPD) April 30, 2024
The collaboration was meant to promote the group to a wider audience, but many fans felt it was a poor choice given Watkins' history.
One netizen commented, "I need the staff that organized this fired."
I need the staff that organised this fired pic.twitter.com/YaVlWlZS1F
— rainedae (@santhedeity) May 13, 2024
i will not be posting that man on this account btw
— natty pics (@nattyhourly) May 13, 2024
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I hate their company for this. His audience is not the attention they need https://t.co/tN22ErVZpz
— ExTeenageRobot Redux (@girllwithluv) May 13, 2024
proof that s2 doesnt understand kiss of life's stan demographic this just pisses me off https://t.co/SrJiYSi8D0
— nattylie nunn (@tokkiof) May 13, 2024
this just pissed me off considering how creepy he is https://t.co/L9XoIzxuaB
— chichi ✭. (@KlRAKUNI) May 13, 2024
The backlash intensified when fans recalled Watkins' past behavior towards another girl group, NewJeans. In January, a video surfaced where Watkins made inappropriate comments about the members in a now-deleted reaction video, leading fans to report him to HYBE.
This history has left a lasting impression, and fans were outraged that KISS OF LIFE's management allowed a similar collaboration. IN CASE
Read also: This Is SOTY': KISS OF LIFE's 'Midas Touch' Earns Rave Reviews For Musicality, Concept, More
Despite Watkins' behavior in the video being described as "tame" by his regular viewers, KISS OF LIFE fans remain dissatisfied. They fear the potential negative impact on the girl group's image due to Watkins' controversial reputation. Even some of Watkins' audience noticed a difference in his demeanor during the collaboration.
Why is he allowed near any idols after the whole NewJeans incident??? https://t.co/yaqUFSOExz
— Nate 💫 Fe304: STICK OUT (@h1mixx) May 13, 2024
One fan voiced their frustration, saying, "Even though his behavior was better than usual, it doesn't excuse the poor judgment in allowing this collaboration."
The controversy has led to calls for accountability from KISS OF LIFE's management. Fans are urging the company to be more cautious in their promotional strategies and to consider the long-term implications of such collaborations.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
