Netflix recently dropped the first poster and release date for its upcoming reality show, “Squid Game: The Challenge,” set to premiere on November 22. Taking inspiration from the immensely popular survival series “Squid Game,” this new reality program brings a fresh twist to the table, as it pits 456 contestants against each other in a quest to claim the record-breaking prize of $4.56 million, marking the highest prize money ever offered in a reality show.
“Squid Game: The Challenge” will closely mirror the original show’s format, with participants engaging in games featured in “Squid Game” while also introducing some exciting new challenges. According to the official show description, “456 players will compete to win $4.56 million, the largest cash prize in reality television history. Through a series of games, each player will be pushed to their limits and forced to ask themselves just how far they’ll go to win, with opportunistic alliances, cutthroat strategies, and timely betrayals to follow.”
The production of “Squid Game: The Challenge” encountered some controversy during its filming in the U.K., as reports emerged regarding contestants requiring medical assistance due to symptoms related to cold and fatigue. Additionally, it was revealed that these participants were not compensated for their participation in the show, as reported by Variety.
The original “Squid Game,” which premiered in September 2021, achieved unprecedented success by accumulating a staggering 1.65 billion view hours on Netflix within its initial month. Due to the incredible popularity of the show, Netflix promptly announced the renewal of the series for a second season, promising even more gripping challenges and intense competition.