Second Lead Syndrome is an internet slang term used to describe a situation in TV shows or movies where viewers develop a strong attachment or preference for the character who plays the second lead, who typically serves as a romantic rival to the main lead. These viewers root for the second lead to end up with the protagonist instead of the main lead.
Examples:
1. In the popular Korean drama, “Boys Over Flowers,” the main lead is Gu Jun-pyo, a rich and arrogant heir, while Yoon Ji-hoo plays the second lead, who is kind, gentle, and always there to support the female lead. Despite knowing that the female lead will most likely end up with Gu Jun-pyo, many viewers suffered from Second Lead Syndrome and wanted her to choose Yoon Ji-hoo instead.
2. In the TV series “The Vampire Diaries,” the main lead is Stefan Salvatore, a vampire with a dark past, while Damon Salvatore plays the second lead, his charismatic and unpredictable brother. Throughout the show, a portion of the audience developed Second Lead Syndrome, wishing that Elena Gilbert would choose Damon over Stefan because of his anti-hero personality and intense chemistry with the female lead.
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