Jennie Faces Backlash Over ‘Unofficial Leader’ Comment in Interview

BLACKPINK member Jennie has found herself at the center of fan controversy after a resurfaced interview sparked backlash. In a chat with Zane Lowe, Jennie spoke about her early days as a trainee and her natural sense of direction within the group. She mentioned that her confidence helped guide the group’s path, but this comment has now been interpreted as her subtly claiming the role of an “unofficial leader of BLACKPINK.”

The statement has not gone down well with a section of fans, who believe Jennie’s comment downplays the roles of other members, particularly Jisoo, who is often seen as the nurturing and balanced figure within the group. The viral clip shows Jennie saying, “I know what to do and I know how to do it... because I was going on a clear path, it was easier for the rest of the girls to see maybe where she’s taking.”

However, the clip was edited to exclude the part where Jennie acknowledged that she, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé complete each other as a team. That nuance didn’t stop fans from criticizing her, with some calling her the "least talented" member and accusing her of being "lazy" during group performances.

Fans Rally Behind Jisoo as BLACKPINK’s True Leader

Many fans responded by praising Jisoo for her quiet strength and maturity. A compilation video went viral, showing Jisoo helping other members during interviews, allowing them to speak first, and showing leader-like behavior in tense situations. A clip even features Lisa saying, “Jisoo leads the group like a leader, and it’s nice to have that side of her.”

The backlash extended to YG Entertainment, with critics accusing the label of favoritism toward Jennie, saying it may have inflated her sense of authority within the group. The fanbase remains divided, with some defending Jennie’s words as misunderstood, while others continue to push for Jisoo as the group's true leader.

tears in my eyes there's no way pic.twitter.com/boZdJVrFk2

— ً 💍 (@clubfaist) April 3, 2025

Jennie’s Growing Solo Success Amid the Controversy

I thought that jisoo was the leader of blackpink before I learned they don’t have a leader lol

— emma (@Emma1ix) April 6, 2025

The controversy comes at a time when Jennie’s solo career is soaring, with her debut album “Ruby” receiving international acclaim. Despite the backlash, she remains one of the most influential K-pop idols globally, and her remarks—whether misinterpreted or not—have sparked an important conversation about group dynamics, media editing, and the pressures placed on idols.