Topline
Netflix announced Tuesday a competition reality show inspired by Squid Game, the hit Korean drama that quickly became the streaming service’s most-watched series.
Younghee, the giant robot doll from “Squid Game”, is exhibited at the Olympic Park on October 26, … [+]
Key Facts
Squid Game: The Challenge is searching to cast 465 English-speaking players from around the world to compete for $4.56 million, which Netflix said is both the largest cast in reality TV history and the largest cash prize in TV history.
Competitors will attempt challenges from the show and new games, according to Variety—though the casting site promises “all players will leave unscathed,” unlike on Squid Game.
Many took to Twitter to call out the tone-deafness of the reality show, given that Squid Game is about people experiencing financial hardship playing life-or-death games to win a life-changing monetary prize.
Big Number
1.65 billion. That’s how many hours of Squid Game were watched in its first 28 days on Netflix, more than any other series. The series premiered in September.
Key Background
Over the weekend, Netflix officially announced the second season of Squid Game. In a statement, the series’ director and creator Hwang Dong-Hyuk said main character Gi-hun, played by actor Lee Jung-Jae, would be returning for the new episodes, as well as the Front Man. In January, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos hinted at expanding the series, saying “the Squid Game universe has just begun.”
Tangent
The large prize Netflix is offering is surprising, considering the streaming service underwent layoffs last month after reporting subscriber losses for the first time in 10 years.
Further Reading
‘Squid Game’ Reality Series Gets Green Light At Netflix (Deadline)
‘Squid Game’ Reality Series Coming to Netflix With Biggest Cash Prize in TV History (The Hollywood Reporter)
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/marisadellatto/2022/06/14/squid-game-reality-show-coming-to-netflix-without-the-body-count/