If releasing a series about the perils of capitalism on a multi-million-pound streaming platform wasn’t already questionable enough, the creators of Squid Game have announced a reality TV series edition of the dystopian drama, where 456 participants will compete for a chance to win a $4.56m cash prize – the largest lumpsum jackpot in the history of reality TV.
Following the announcement earlier this week that Squid Game will be returning for a second season, Squid Game: The Challenge will see 456 participants compete in a series of games inspired by the show. There won‘t be any fatal consequences though, as participants who don’t win will simply return home empty-handed.
Netflix vice president Brandon Reigg said the reality series will draw on Dong-hyuk’s “captivating story and iconic imagery”, adding that the company was grateful for his support in developing Squid Game: The Challenge.
While the idea of basing a reality show on a series that denounces the capitalist rat race seems like a bizarre, if not outright distasteful decision, it’s a no-brainer for Netflix, which confirmed that Squid Game is one of its most-watched series ever.
There’s no official date for when season two will drop, though Hwang previously estimated it could arrive in 2023 or 2024. Netflix is currently casting for its Squid Game reality TV series, inviting applications from around the world. The first round will feature English-language speakers and be filmed in the UK. You can find out more here.