Eric Nam Takes Revenge: The Music Video for “How the Fire Started”
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Eric Nam has made quite the entrance with the release of his new music video for “How the Fire Started,” which includes a few familiar faces from the reality TV show, *The Traitors*. Premiering exclusively on PEOPLE, the video features his fellow cast members Maura Higgins, Ron Funches, Natalie Anderson, and Yam Yam Arocho. This exciting new project marks a moment of reckoning for Nam, especially following a tumultuous season finale of *The Traitors*, where he faced betrayal at the hands of Rob Rausch.
The music video sees Nam confronting Rausch at his ranch to “right some wrongs.” After Rausch’s unexpected turn during the season’s climax, which saw him eliminate Nam to claim the $220,800 prize for himself, this new visual narrative offers a chance for retribution. Nam’s determination to set the record straight leads him to gather his Traitors compatriots, who he finds trapped and less than amused at Rausch’s ranch.
As the video unfolds, viewers witness a dramatic scene in which Nam and his allies plot against Rausch, who sports his signature denim overalls. The stakes escalate toward the climax, culminating in a confrontation that sees Rausch tied up and at the mercy of his former teammates. The video ends with a chilling moment, where Rausch is nearly set ablaze, but in a twist, Funches experiences a pang of conscience and rushes back to rescue him from the flames.
Reflecting on the production experience, Nam described the atmosphere on set as enjoyable and light-hearted, marking a stark contrast to the tension of *The Traitors*. He shared how it was refreshing to see his companions in a different light, away from the competitive spirit of the game. “Ron was doing Ron, just under a tree by himself. Yam Yam was loud as ever. Maura was doing glam and looking fabulous, and Rob just rolls up in an overall,” he recalled with a laugh.
The music video was shot in Los Angeles soon after the cast’s reunion for *The Traitors*, making it a kind of celebration for the group. Nam’s initiative to involve his former castmates was well received, with each member eager to contribute. “I think it’s just a great way to wrap up this experience,” he explained, suggesting a sense of closure through this creative project.
Although his journey on *The Traitors* ended in disappointment, Nam emphasises that, ultimately, it was all part of the entertainment industry. The emotional rollercoaster of reality television can evoke strong reactions from fans, and Nam remarked on the harsh criticism he received online. “Every morning I would wake up and yell into the castle, ‘Let’s make great TV.’ I reminded everyone that this is a gig,” he said.
The experience of *The Traitors* has undoubtedly influenced the themes of his new music. While he expresses no regrets about his gameplay, Nam admits that he may have extended his trust more cautiously towards Rausch. “I played as true as I could, as honourably as I could. I don’t have any regrets. Do I wish Rob had made a different decision? Yeah, but that’s on him,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Nam aims to use his increased visibility from reality television to further connect with American audiences. He shared insights into his journey as an artist, having navigated a diverse set of challenges in the K-pop industry. His ambition extends beyond music, as he embraces opportunities in acting as well.
With a unique blend of upcoming projects, including an album centred on relationships, Nam is also gearing up for film roles that allow him to stretch his acting abilities. Notably, he will voice Aang in the upcoming film, *The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender*, and star in a K-pop movie currently in development. He views acting as a new frontier, despite its challenges, and is eager to broaden his skill set.
As Eric Nam continues to build momentum in his career, his ambitions remain high. “I just hope that I can keep the momentum going, and that the work speaks for itself,” he stated. With “How the Fire Started,” he’s not just telling a story of revenge; he’s also carving a path for an exciting future brimming with artistic expression and growth.