Lisa Manobal, the Thai rapper and dancer from the K-pop sensation Blackpink, continues to soar to new heights.
She has made history as the first-ever global cover star for Billboard magazine.
LISA THE GLOBAL STAR
The November 2024 edition features Lisa on 10 international covers. This includes editions in the United States, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Canada.
The covers celebrate Lisa’s ever-growing global appeal. Fans around the world were thrilled by the unexpected burst of content, according to Billboard.
Just days before, Lisa also graced the fold-out cover of Vanity Fair’s Hollywood issue. It’s been a week of back-to-back milestones for the 27-year-old star.
LISA’S BILLBOARD INTERVIEW
In her Billboard interview, Lisa opened up about branching out into a solo career.
“In Blackpink, I’m a rapper, so I always rap,” she shared.
“But now, it’s a chance for me to show the world that I’m capable of so much more.” Blackpink, who debuted in 2016, are currently on a group hiatus, according to People.
LISA AND BLACKPINK
However, Lisa confirmed the quartet will reunite in 2025. She emphasised their strong bond.
“We know each other so well and know how much energy we have to put into every single project… I’m just so happy that they’re releasing their own music.”
South African fans have followed Lisa’s journey closely.
BRIDGING CULTURAL GAPS
Her global rise represents the increasing power of Asian artists in the international entertainment industry.
Lisa’s charm and versatility resonate with audiences everywhere, bridging cultural gaps, according to Sportskeeda.
LISA IN ‘WHITE LOTUS’
Adding to her achievements, Lisa will soon venture into acting. She features in the upcoming third season of The White Lotus, HBO’s acclaimed drama series.
A teaser trailer hints at her role as a hotel staff member at the fictional White Lotus resort. The show, expected to premiere in 2025, will mark her acting debut.
VANITY FAIR FEATURE
Her inclusion in Vanity Fair’s Hollywood issue has sparked mixed reactions.
The cover traditionally features prominent actors, and Lisa’s limited acting experience raised eyebrows. However, editor-in-chief Radhika Jones stood by the choice.
“Lisa’s incredibly famous,” Jones explained. “We’re going to introduce her in a new context, and it’s nice to be able to create that mix.”
LISA’S QUIRKY SIDE
Lisa’s feature in Vanity Fair also revealed a quirky side.
She raved about her love for Pop Mart’s blind boxes, particularly the Labubu figurines. Her passion for these collectables has reportedly sparked a global craze.
For South Africans, her story is a testament to the power of dreaming big and staying authentic.
From a small-town girl in Thailand to a global icon, She has achieved what once seemed impossible.
A RISING STAR
As she continues to shine, fans worldwide are eager to see what’s next.
Lisa’s journey proves that success knows no borders. Whether through music, acting, or her unique personality, she continues to inspire.
As Blackpink’s comeback looms and her acting debut approaches, her star is only set to rise further.
WHAT OTHER ARTISTS WOULD YOU LOVE TO SEE ON BILLBOARD’S GLOBAL COVERS?
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