On January 22, it was confirmed that former Mnet producer Ahn Joon-young, who served prison time for manipulating votes in the Produce series, has recently approached some X1 members with a proposal to join a new reality variety program. While the show is still in the planning phase and not yet confirmed for broadcast, the outreach alone has stirred speculation about a potential comeback for the disbanded group.
This development follows Mnet’s decision to reunite members of Wanna One, who were selected through Produce 101 Season 2, for an upcoming reality program. With this nostalgic wave for Produce alumni gaining traction, fans are watching closely to see whether X1 can rise from the ashes and shed the stigma of their past.
X1 debuted in August 2019 but disbanded in January 2020 after the vote manipulation scandal came to light. The group members returned to their respective agencies, facing backlash and being labeled a “rigged group.” A reunion could mark an opportunity to reclaim their image and reconnect with fans.
There is also growing curiosity over whether Ahn Joon-young will personally direct the new reality show. After being sentenced to two years in prison in May 2020, he completed his sentence and was released in November 2021. If the show goes forward under his leadership, it may ignite both controversy and interest.
Whether this potential reunion will truly happen, and if it could lay the foundation for X1’s resurgence, remains to be seen. Fans and industry watchers alike are keeping a close eye on further developments.
Sources: Daum
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