Cover Following the resounding success of Squid Game, many sources suggest Netflix is preparing an American version (photo: Netflix)
Following the resounding success of Squid Game, many sources suggest Netflix is preparing an American version (photo: Netflix)
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Despite ongoing debate around its content and conclusion, Squid Game Season 3 swiftly shattered viewership records, signalling strong potential for a US adaptation, similar to how Netflix previously reimagined Money Heist from its Spanish original to a Korean remake.
According to statistics released by Netflix, within just three days of its release, the final season of Squid Game drew 60.1 million views, equivalent to over 368 million viewing hours, topping charts in more than 90 countries. Season 2 had previously notched 68 million views in its first four days. While both instalments faced criticism regarding content quality and other peripheral issues, this survival-themed sensation from South Korea continues to command global attention.
Reactions to the final season were mixed, from both audiences and critics. Some praised its heightened drama compared to the previous season, while others lamented underdeveloped plot points and the underuse of an expansive ensemble cast. Still, buoyed by intense global interest, the season enjoyed commercial triumph, paving the way for a possible US edition, and potentially further international offshoots if it makes waves on a global scale.
Cate Blanchett, Lee Byung Hun and David Fincher: Major names tipped for the US version of ‘Squid Game’
Not long after the season premiered on Netflix, film lovers worldwide were taken aback by a surprise cameo: actress Cate Blanchett appeared at the very end as a player recruiter, in a role reminiscent of Gong Yoo’s character. A brief but intriguing exchange between Blanchett’s character and the Front Man (played by Lee Byung Hun) sparked widespread buzz and speculation.
Interestingly, in an interview earlier this year, Cate Blanchett revealed she had been contemplating retirement after decades in film and theatre. With a career marked by award-winning performances and wide-ranging roles, Blanchett remains one of the most bankable stars with a devoted following. Her unexpected involvement in the final season delighted and surprised fans in equal measure.
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Though Netflix has yet to confirm a US version officially, speculation is rife. Rather than a straight remake, the project is reportedly envisioned as a narrative continuation of Squid Game, with filming expected to begin in Los Angeles later this year. However, Hwang Dong Hyuk, the series’ original creator, has indicated he will not take on a production role for the US version. Instead, he will serve as a consultant and offer creative input.
Though unconfirmed, several sources suggest that David Fincher—renowned for cinematic triumphs both critically and commercially, such as Gone Girl, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Fight Club and Se7en—is in line to direct. The script is said to be in the hands of Dennis Kelly, the screenwriter behind the cult sci-fi thriller series Utopia.
Lee Byung Hun is also expected to reprise his role in the US version, which would allow further exploration of his character’s backstory, previously hinted to include his own turn as a contestant in the brutal game.
Should these reports materialise, the American version stands a strong chance of echoing the success of the original. With a formidable creative team in place, it could help expand the Squid Game universe even further. Meanwhile, Squid Game: The Challenge, the reality competition inspired by the series, has also proven commercially successful and is currently filming its second season. All signs suggest Netflix intends to continue capitalising on the global appetite for survival narratives born in Korea, adapting the concept for diverse markets around the world.
Risk of failure: Netflix’s track record with sequels raises concerns
Despite strong potential, viewers fear the US version of ‘Squid Game’ may fall short
While the American version of Squid Game carries significant promise, many viewers remain wary that it could end up a misstep.
Concerns stem from the creative direction of the project, with some fearing that the new version may lack originality and emotional resonance, qualities that defined the first season but waned in its sequels. A key element in the show’s appeal has been the incorporation of survival games inspired by traditional Asian culture. This culturally specific charm, some argue, may not translate effectively in a US setting.
Netflix’s history with sequels and adaptations has not always inspired confidence. Alice in Borderland, a much-loved Japanese survival series, drew disappointment with its second season, which many felt lacked the quality of the first. Sweet Home, another Korean production, sparked divided opinions with its second and third seasons. Meanwhile, Money Heist: Korea attracted attention but failed to generate the same impact as the original Spanish series.
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It is not just Asian titles that have struggled. Successful American series have faced similar issues. The Umbrella Academy and Lucifer, both instrumental in establishing Netflix’s dominance in the global streaming arena, came under fire for a noticeable drop in quality in their final seasons. Likewise, the Spanish thriller Who Killed Sara? received acclaim for its debut but faltered in subsequent instalments.
Conversely, Netflix has enjoyed greater success with one-off series, which often combine critical acclaim with strong commercial performance. Notable examples include Behind Her Eyes, Karma, The Fall of the House of Usher, The Queen’s Gambit, The Haunting of Hill House and Mercy for None.
Given these mixed results, the fate of the US version of Squid Game remains uncertain. Still, with an ensemble that includes director David Fincher, Oscar-winning actress Cate Blanchett and actor Lee Byung Hun, the adaptation could yet defy expectations—surpassing the towering shadow of the original and helping Netflix scale new heights in global streaming.
