They really did luck out with them! I don’t know how many new people they’re bringing in, but they’re doing a lot to maintain interest, and probably bumping up casual fans into something a bit deeper. Aside from the SM side, they’re just obviously gorgeous and talented and again, that riDICULOUS chemistry. It would have been so horrible to waste it so I’m glad there was someone at least halfway competent behind that decision.
Of course, I could come to rue saying that. I love how knowing Stefania is on S19 now is such a collective fandom roller coaster, excitement and apprehension alternating in waves. Oh, well, as you said, we got a long hiatus to bask in what we have now and the potential for more.