Contrary to previous reports that cast members of "Infinite Challenge" will record a new challenge for the program, it has been revealed that the MBC show will instead air a series of special episodes during its seven-week hiatus.
According to Soompi, MBC plans to broadcast four episodes of "Infinite Challenge Legend Special" while the variety show is taking a break. Reports stated cast members are set for a commentary recording for the special episodes which will feature some of their funniest moments on and off the camera.
"Forty's Spring" has taken over "Infinite Challenge's" timeslot since Jan. 28. The pilot program will air for three consecutive weeks and will be followed by a four-part "Infinite Challenge Legend Special."
PD Kim Tae Ho confirmed their seven-week hiatus last month, stating that "the purpose of the hiatus is to normalize the processes necessary to produce the show." The PD claimed the cast and crew of "Infinite Challenge" will continue to work despite the hiatus.
He said they are not aiming to produce a perfect variety program, but rather to bring back the fundamental nature of "Infinite Challenge." Kim Tae Ho even admitted that it pains him when the show suffers from lack of preparation.
"It usually takes two weeks to plan and create a new project, but we broadcast every week. And when an episode airs in an incomplete state, it really pains me as a producing director," he added.
Meanwhile, industry forecasts revealed Wednesday that the seven-week hiatus of "Infinite Challenge" might result to an estimated loss of 2 billion KRW for MBC. Korea Times cited the number of commercials plummeted from 40 to 20 since Jan. 28.
Unlike the viewership rating of "Infinite Challenge" which ranges from 11 to 15 percent, "Forty's Spring" settles at 5 to 6 percent per episode.
"For the past two weeks, the number of commercials for "Infinite Challenge" has halved. Things could get worse or remain this way until "Infinite Challenge" resumes," an expert stated.