Set to air its first episode on Thursday, the 17th at 9 PM, SBS's 'Jungle Bob 2 - Caribbean Bob' is the follow-up to 'Peru Bob.' The show features actors Ryu Soo-young, Kim Ok-bin, Lee Joon, and Chef Yoon Nam-no as they embark on a culinary adventure in the Caribbean Sea of the Dominican Republic. With breathtaking views of the emerald Caribbean Sea, the show promises to captivate viewers with unique recipes, from a grand fresh tuna dissection show to dessert artistry at a cacao farm.
PD Ryu Ji-hwan explained the choice of location, saying, "The word 'Caribbean' evokes romance and dreams." He added, "It's a place shrouded in mystery, known as the starting point of Columbus's Age of Discovery and familiar from 'Pirates of the Caribbean,' yet not easily accessible due to its distance." He was captivated by the stunning emerald sea and the vibrant spirit of the Dominican people, which led to the decision to film there. The abundance of food from the blessed sea further convinced the production team.
The cast of 'Caribbean Rice' includes Ryu Soo-young, Kim Ok-bin, Lee Joon, and Yoon Nam-no. PD Ryu mentioned, "Ryu Soo-young is the first person that comes to mind when you think of 'Jungle Bob.'" Kim Ok-bin, who joined from 'Peru Bob,' is described as a multi-talented individual capable of freediving, scuba diving, and even piloting a boat. "She was like a fish in water, never losing her smile even after two hours underwater," he noted.
Regarding the new face, Lee Joon, PD Ryu said, "He's a genius that every television show producer wants." He excelled in every area, whether it was underwater exploration, cooking, or comedy.
As for Chef Yoon Nam-no, who completed the team, PD Ryu shared, "I knew of his incredible skills even before his 'Culinary Class Wars' days." Despite his unique appearance reminiscent of Dennis Rodman or Neymar, he showed a pure and gentle side in the kitchen. "Chef Yoon is a genius. He has a plan for every ingredient from A to Z. Viewers will be amazed by his transformations and might find it hard to resist a late-night snack," he introduced.
Discussing the differences between 'Peru Bob' and 'Caribbean Bob,' PD Ryu explained, "'Peru Bob' was about challenging unknown ingredients and extreme environments, while 'Caribbean Bob reveals the ingredients upfront with the message 'If you want delicious food, go find it yourself.'" The concept involves the cast taking a road trip along the Dominican Republic's Caribbean coast, following the flow of consciousness. The ingredients could be found underwater, in the mountains, or even in the heart of the Dominican Republic.
When asked about the most challenging ingredient during the 'Caribbean Bob' adventure, PD Ryu mentioned Ryu Soo-young's attempt at marlin fishing. "Marlin fishing in the Caribbean is extremely difficult, and no one could guarantee success. It was like filming a live-action version of 'The Old Man and the Sea,'" he said, piquing curiosity about the outcome. Regarding the chemistry and atmosphere on set, he noted, "Thanks to Kim Ok-bin, who never lost her smile even after two hours underwater, and the energetic Lee Joon, the set was always lively." He added that Lee Joon and Yoon Nam-no were like a dynamic duo, with Chef Yoon elevating Lee Joon's culinary skills.
Finally, PD Ryu highlighted the show's appeal, saying, "We want to bring the romance and fantasy of the Caribbean Sea, with its vibrant waters, sandy beaches, and palm trees, to enrich viewers' lives. Watch the show and start dreaming of a romantic summer vacation."
'Caribbean Bob' premieres on Thursday, the 17th, at 9 PM.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)