With how talent reality shows have taken the entertainment industry by storm, it’s no surprise that The Debut: Dream Academy is gaining buzz worldwide. However, it left viewers surprised as one of the contestants, Lexie, announced her withdrawal from the show. 

In a Weverse post on Friday, October 21,  HYBE x Geffen Records confirmed Lexie’s departure from the show. “Lexie believes that while this process has been immensely beneficial on her journey of self-discovery, pursuing a place in the final girl group no longer aligns with her professional aspirations,” the statement read.

Lexie on her journey in ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ 

In a touching behind-the-scenes video shared by HYBE Labels, Lexie opened up about the main reason for her departure. According to the 19-year-old contestant from Sweden, she realized that “this path is not just meant for [her].” 

Despite the decision to part ways with the competition, Lexie remained grateful for the life-changing opportunity she had been granted. Moreover, she spoke candidly about her growth throughout The Debut: Dream Academy.  “All the people I’ve met and all the things I’ve learned. I’ve just grown so much. Obviously, it’s a hard decision, but I’m honestly truly happy and at peace with it. And I’m really excited to see what the future has in store for me,” she said. 

Additionally, she also had nothing but sweet words to her fellow contestants, saying that they’re her “sisters” and “family.” “Without you guys, I wouldn’t have made it this far. You guys are just like my rock. And how you guys from day one took care of me, I was really scared. But you guys just welcomed me with my open arms,” she said.  

With Lexie’s exit, the competition now proceeds with 13 remaining contestants. The remaining 13 will embark on the third mission, slated to kick off on October 25. After the third and final mission concludes, only 10 girls will have the chance to perform at the show’s live finale, which is scheduled for November 17.

HYBE x Geffen Records’ global girl group

Created by South Korean entertainment giant HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, the reality series aims to discover and cultivate the next global girl group. Only 20 talented contestants from different corners of the world were chosen in a pool of 120,000 applicants. 

According to earlier reports, the group that will be formed through The Debut: Dream Academy will debut with an English song. In addition to their debut track, the girl group’s journey will be immortalized in a Netflix documentary series scheduled for release in 2024. 

As HYBE is known to be home to K-pop powerhouse acts BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and more, fans have set high expectations for the upcoming girl group.

Featured image: Lexie in a behind-the-scene photo for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy.’ Credit: Dream Academy’s Instagram