‘KPop Demon Hunters’ star Ejae says Leonardo DiCaprio was reason for vocal mistakes at BAFTAs: “He made me so nervous”

Ejae, the vocalist behind the character Rumi in the Netflix hit KPop Demon Hunters, has revealed that the presence of actor Leonardo DiCaprio at the BAFTAs contributed to mistakes she made during her live performance. While performing the track “Born To Be” at the prestigious awards ceremony in February, Ejae admitted to struggling with some high notes due to nerves triggered by the actor’s direct gaze.

The KPop Demon Hunters project has experienced remarkable success, becoming Netflix’s most watched film. Its widespread acclaim has led to various expansions including spin-offs, a sequel in development, and plans for a global live tour, further elevating the profile of its contributors like Ejae.

Despite the accomplishment of performing at such a high-profile event with fellow artists Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, Ejae described her experience at the BAFTAs as daunting. She specifically pointed to a moment when she locked eyes with DiCaprio, an encounter that unsettled her and affected her vocal control.

This live performance challenge highlights the intense pressure artists often face when performing in front of influential industry figures and celebrities. Ejae’s candid reflection offers insight into the emotional and psychological demands of live singing on large stages.

Beyond the awards show, Ejae has expressed amazement at her swift rise in the music industry, describing her newfound status as overwhelming compared to her previous obscurity. This transformation underscores the rapid influence that Netflix's global platform can have on emerging talent.

In addition to the ongoing developments around the film, a new book titled The Art Of KPop Demon Hunters is set for release in September. It promises to delve deeply into the film’s artistic design, visual themes, and cultural inspirations, adding further context to the production’s creative framework.

The book will be available in two editions, including a platinum version featuring holographic page edges that evoke the film’s symbolic Honmoon veil, a key element in the story’s mythology. This release is anticipated to attract fans interested in the visual and conceptual layers behind the film.

Meanwhile, Audrey Nuna, another vocalist involved in the project, has released new music for the first time in two years. Her single “superHuman” portrays themes of redemption and validation, complementing the emotional intensity observed in KPop Demon Hunters’ soundtrack.

Ejae’s admission and the broader success of KPop Demon Hunters reflect the increasing integration of KPop culture with global entertainment markets. The project’s blend of animation, music, and storytelling signals a trend toward multimedia franchises that can drive multiple revenue streams and cross-market fan engagement.

The nervousness experienced by Ejae during the BAFTAs also illustrates the human side of artists navigating newfound exposure and high expectations. Such moments may influence how performers prepare for live events and manage interactions with prominent industry figures.

As KPop Demon Hunters continues to expand through various media and music releases, Ejae’s role and personal journey will likely remain a focal point for fans and industry observers. Her experience sheds light on the pressures behind the success and how artists cope with rapid changes in fame and opportunity.

While the film’s continued popularity and ancillary projects are confirmed, further details about the live tour’s scale and the sequel’s production timeline remain unannounced. These forthcoming developments will be critical in sustaining the franchise’s momentum and deepening its cultural impact.

Overall, the narrative surrounding Ejae and KPop Demon Hunters illustrates the dynamic intersection of music, animation, and celebrity culture in today’s entertainment landscape, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges faced by rising artists in a competitive global market.