T.O.P excluded from 'Squid Game' season 2 poster and cast list amid controversy

03 Dec 2024, 10:56 by Grace-HA · allkpop

Netflix's highly anticipated original series 'Squid Game Season 2' has stirred discussions as singer-actor T.O.P (real name Choi Seung Hyun) was omitted from the second poster and official cast list. This unexpected development follows his brief yet significant appearance in the first teaser trailer.

T.O.P made a notable impression in the first teaser released on November 1, where he appeared with striking purple hair during the "Red Light, Green Light" game. His character delivered a chilling line, "There's a bee on you," which startled a fellow participant and led to their elimination, hinting at a pivotal role.

On December 26, Netflix unveiled the second main poster for 'Squid Game Season 2', featuring returning lead Lee Jung Jae and other cast members. However, T.O.P's image was conspicuously absent. Furthermore, the full cast list and special guest lineup revealed the inclusion of actors like Im Si Wan, Kang Ha Neul, Lee Jin Wook, and others, butT.O.P's name was missing.

T.O.P's absence has been attributed to the backlash surrounding his previous legal issues. In 2017, he faced a 10 month prison sentence with a 2 year probation after being charged with marijuana use in 2016. The controversy resurfaced following his casting announcement, potentially prompting the production team to distance the series from the negative publicity.

This decision suggests that the production team may have opted to mitigate potential risks tied to public opinion. T.O.P was initially seen as marking a high-profile comeback after years of hiatus, but the growing criticism appears to have influenced his reduced involvement in promotional materials.

'Squid Game Season 2' will explore the return of Gi Hun (Lee Jung Jae) seeking revenge and his confrontation with the enigmatic Front Man (Lee Byung Hun). The series is scheduled for release on December 26 and one of the most awaited Netflix productions despite the ongoing controversies.

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