Cho Sae-ho Makes Fast Comeback with Netflix's 'Screwballs 4' After Mob-Ties Furor

After allegations of ties to organized crime prompted him to step away from ongoing shows, comedian Cho Sae-ho is set to return with a new season of Netflix’s “Screwballs.”

On the 31st, a local outlet reported that Cho will join Season 4 of the Netflix variety series, slated for release next year, and that talks with producers have already wrapped. Soon after, the “Screwballs” team effectively confirmed the news, saying the cast and crew are prepping the new season and that Cho is expected to take part.

“Screwballs” is the follow-up variety franchise from PD Park In-seok, who previously helmed KBS2’s “Beat Coin.” The series features Kim Sook, Hong Jin-kyung, Joo Woo-jae and 2PM’s WOOYOUNG, and has built a loyal fandom across its first three seasons. Cho’s camp, asked about his return, said the decision “rests with the producers,” leaving the door open.

Earlier this month, Cho was swept up in rumors alleging a personal connection to a man identified only as Mr. Choi, described in reports as the suspected mastermind behind a massive illegal money-laundering operation. Online posts further claimed Cho maintained cozy ties with the figure and received expensive gifts―claims Cho has denied.

As the controversy grew, Cho voluntarily exited tvN’s “You Quiz on the Block” and KBS2’s “2 Days & 1 Night Season 4,” saying he felt a deep sense of responsibility and would step back to reflect. He also insisted the allegations were unfounded and vowed to pursue legal action to set the record straight.

Since then, explanations from Cho’s agency and acquaintances have somewhat cooled public sentiment. The “Screwballs” team also kept Cho’s footage intact through Season 3 broadcasts, signaling continued trust behind the scenes.

News of Cho’s variety comeback less than a month after his hiatus has drawn mixed reactions―some calling it premature, others seeing it as a cautious restart on a streaming platform while key facts remain unverified.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)