Actor Kim Nam Gil Reveals His “Wife” With A Teasing Speech At The “2024 SBS Drama Awards”
At the “2024 SBS Drama Awards,” lead actor Kim Nam Gil took home the “Top Excellence Award” for the hit K-Drama, The Fiery Priest Season 2. Given his fiery acting in the series, Kim Nam Gil’s fans might have anticipated the win—but what they did not expect was a surprise “wife” reveal in his acceptance speech.
As the actor took the stage to accept his award, he hinted that there was a different award that he wanted to win: The “Best Couple Award.”
To be honest, there was another award I was hoping to receive.
No, not the Daesang prize… but I genuinely wished for the ‘Best Couple Award.’
— Kim Nam Gil
Lamenting that SBS missed the opportunity to “acknowledge [his] relationship with Kim Sung Kyun,” Kim Nam Gil revealed that he had The Fiery Priest co-star saved as his “wife” on his phone!
I thought it could officially acknowledge my relationship with Kim Sung Kyun and serve as a significant moment, letting the world know about us. (laughs) I apologize—he’s such a generous friend. In fact, I had him saved as ‘Wife’ on my phone, so I thought this might be SBS officially recognizing it. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen. What a pity!
— Kim Nam Gil
After teasing the audience with his surprise wife reveal, Kim Nam Gil continued to thank the cast and staff of The Fiery Priest and reminded K-Drama fans that the series grand finale is coming up.
Watch his full speech here:
I actually came here tonight prepared to applaud wholeheartedly, but it looks like I ended up receiving an award, too. To be honest, there was another award I was hoping to receive. No, not the Daesang prize… but I genuinely wished for the ‘Best Couple Award.’ I thought it could officially acknowledge my relationship with Kim Sung Kyun and serve as a significant moment, letting the world know about us. (laughs) I apologize—he’s such a generous friend. In fact, I had him saved as ‘Wife’ on my phone, so I thought this might be SBS officially recognizing it. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen. What a pity!
The Fiery Priest, like any production, was very time-constrained. It was a project where everyone worked tirelessly to ensure we didn’t compromise on quality. Both the internal and external staff worked so hard that we have been able to deliver the episodes without any broadcasting mishaps. You’re all watching along, right? It’s all thanks to you. I’m always grateful.
This series wasn’t planned to have multiple seasons. And because the previous season did so well, there was a lot of pressure and heavy expectations. Despite that, our scriptwriter and director, who aren’t here today, worked so hard and persevered until the end. And as many of my fellow actors have mentioned earlier, being able to act alongside such incredible talent truly creates a happy set. For The Fiery Priest team, every moment on set was a joy. Not just for me but for everyone, the series has been pure love and joy.
There may be regrets about certain aspects of the series, but everyone here contributed to creating a new genre with The Fiery Priest. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all and let you know how much you’ve done. Your support is the reason I get to stand here and speak in front of you. To the viewers and fans who watched The Fiery Priest, please continue to watch how the cast shines until the end. We’re not quite over yet! The finale is on the 27th at 10 PM—please stay tuned.
Lastly, as many have mentioned, we’re living through some troubled times when ordinary daily life feels especially precious. To all the sunbae and hoobae actors, colleagues here, and viewers: I hope the new year brings you more happiness in the simplicity of daily life. May God’s blessings be with you all. Thank you.
— Kim Nam Gil
Here are all the winners of the “2024 SBS Drama Awards.”