Digital Phablet – The finale of Netflix’s acclaimed series, Squid Game, has ignited speculation about a possible US spin-off, particularly after featuring a notable scene with Cate Blanchett as a recruiter in Los Angeles.
Warning: Spoilers for Season 3 ahead
The conclusion of Squid Game triggered a variety of responses on social media, with some fans critiquing it for insufficient character development and labeling it a “cash grab” in anticipation of a sequel. Conversely, others appreciated the ending for its more realistic tone.
The character that sparked the most debate was Detective Hwang Jun-ho, who dedicated two full seasons to tracking down the island where the games were held and searching for his brother, Hwang In-ho (the Front Man). However, upon finally reaching it, he seemed to take no action.
Is a New Squid Game on the Horizon? Finale Fuels US Spin-off Speculation
Season 3 of Squid Game concluded in Los Angeles, where Hwang In-ho gave Seong Gi-hun’s daughter the 45.6 billion won prize from Season 1, following Gi-hun’s controversial fate after saving Player 222’s baby.
The scene then transitions to Hwang In-ho rolling down the window to talk to Cate Blanchett, who is recruiting while also ruthlessly slapping a homeless man in an alley, emphasizing a game of Ddakji.
While many viewers anticipated a cameo by Leonardo DiCaprio, the appearance of Cate Blanchett thrilled fans on social media.
Reports from What’s on Netflix indicated that rumors of a potential US spin-off first emerged in 2023, with renowned director David Fincher (Fight Club) being speculated to be involved. Insider DanielRPK noted that the new show might not carry the ‘Squid Game’ title.
Although Netflix has yet to confirm this, various sources online have suggested a US spin-off has been on the radar for some time. While some fans express excitement about this prospect, others are skeptical, concerned about the direction of the franchise.
One user expressed on X, “…why? There’s already a Squid Game.”
Another commented, “Americans can’t handle success and feel the need to replicate it. Let the original Squid Game stand alone. It’s frustrating, just like how they copied a successful Japanese anime series recently.”
