Blackpink's Jennie in Cannes for acting debut

Jennie poses for photographers at the photo call for the television series 'The Idol' at the 76th international television series festival, Cannes, southern France, Tuesday, May 23, 2023. — Photo: Reuters

Jennie of K-pop band Blackpink made her first foray into the Cannes Film Festival Monday, marking her acting debut in style.

The K-pop singer attended the red carpet event for the international film festival's 76th edition held in Cannes, France. This was her first attendance at the fest.

The event took place on Monday, prior to the Out of Competition gala premiere of HBO drama series The Idol, with which Jennie is making her acting debut. Two of the show's six episodes were screened that night.

The highly anticipated series was co-produced by Canadian singer Abel Tesfaye, better known as singer the Weeknd, and Euphoria creator Sam Levinson. The Weeknd is also a protagonist in the series along with French American actor Lily-Rose Depp.

Set against the backdrop of the LA music industry, The Idol centres around an aspiring female pop star who builds a complicated yet romantic relationship with a self-help guru and cult leader on her way to stardom.

Jennie, whose real name is Jennie Kim, is making her official screen debut in a supporting role.

The Idol is expected to start airing in June.

Jennie appeared on the Cannes red carpet in a classic Hollywood style Chanel dress, and a matching big black satin bow on her hair. She was joined by The Idol cast members including Tesfaye, Depp and Australian singer-songwriter Troye Sivan.

Jennie also attended The Idol's after party at the film festival on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old rapper is the second from Blackpink to attend this year's Cannes festival, which runs from May 16-27.

Her bandmate Rose showed up on the festival's second night at the invitation of French luxury house Saint Laurent, as their global ambassador.

Blackpink is currently on a world tour. Jennie flew to Cannes following the Macau gigs of its world tour Born Pink on Saturday and Sunday. The next Blackpink shows are set to take place this weekend in Bangkok, Thailand. – By Choi Ji-won/ The Korea Herald/Asia News Network