Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who helmed 'Squid Game' Season 3, has revealed the story behind Cate Blanchett's surprise appearance in the final episode.
During a post-season interview at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, on the 30th, Hwang was asked about the casting of Hollywood actress Cate Blanchett in the last episode of episode 6. He shared, "In the US, we thought it would be interesting to have a female character play the 'Ddakji Man'. The scene was short and had only one line, so we needed an actress with a strong presence and charisma. Cate Blanchett immediately came to mind. Isn't she one of the best actresses on the planet? When we approached her, she accepted so easily. Later, when we met, she mentioned that her kids were fans of 'Squid Game', so I asked her to please keep it a secret from them."
Cate Blanchett, an Australian actress, has won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for 'The Aviator' and Best Actress for 'Blue Jasmine'.
In 'Squid Game' Season 3, Blanchett played a female version of the 'Ddakji Man', a role previously portrayed by Gong Yoo. Despite her brief screen time of about 30 seconds, her appearance was captivating.
Previously, there were unfounded rumors about Leonardo DiCaprio making an appearance, but these turned out to be just that, rumors. Blanchett's surprise participation further solidified 'Squid Game's global popularity and influence.
However, Director Hwang Dong-hyuk clarified that Blanchett's appearance does not hint at an American spin-off. He also commented on the rumored American version of 'Squid Game' being produced by David Fincher, saying, "It seems like the US media picked up on a rumor."
'Squid Game' Season 3 follows the story of Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), who re-enters the game with a personal agenda only to lose his closest friend, the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) who infiltrates the game in disguise, and the brutal fate of the surviving participants. Released on the 27th, the show quickly topped Netflix's TV show global chart for two consecutive days and was chosen by the most viewers in 93 countries.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)