[SPOTV News=Reporter Jeong Hyewon] Stephanie, a former member of the K-pop group Cheon Sang Ji-hee, opened up about her relationship with former Major League Baseball outfielder Brady Anderson, who is 23 years her senior.
Stephanie, who debuted with Cheon Sang Ji-hee in 2005 and is widely regarded as one of K-pop’s most accomplished dancers, will appear on KBS Joy’s variety show "Ask Anything," which airs on the 9th.
She told the program she rose to mainstream popularity within two years of debuting but had to pause activities four years in after a serious injury. After rehabbing in the United States, she joined a ballet company and is now planning a nationwide tour.
She said a comment—"You're good at everything, so why didn't you succeed?"—built up over time and turned into a deep wound, prompting her to appear on "Ask Anything." Comedian Lee Soo-geun asked, "What went wrong? Did you just make less money?" and suggested to Stephanie that part of the perception might come from being comfortable now.
When Stephanie added, "I train hard and put everything on the line for a stage, yet people ask, 'Why can't you win on Immortal Songs?'" hosts Seo Jang-hoon and Lee Soo-geun visibly reacted. They pushed back, noting, "You're being booked on 'Immortal Songs' because you're successful," and arguing, "You couldn't have kept working for 21 years if you weren't doing well," effectively challenging the premise of her worry.
Seo told her that her drive comes from very high personal standards, and that the ability to work for a long time is itself a form of talent. Lee offered encouragement as well, saying more people recognize how hard she works and how skilled she is.
Stephanie also updated the public on the relationship that drew attention because of the 23-year age gap. According to production staff, she told them, "We're doing well," which sparked renewed interest.
In 2020, reports revealed that Stephanie and Brady Anderson were dating despite their 23-year age difference. At the time, Stephanie confirmed, "Yes, I'm dating Brady Anderson. We met as a good match and are continuing a meaningful relationship, so I'd appreciate your warm support."
