What was the first thing that captivated you when you watched “Squid Game” Season 2? The new games? Lee Jung Jae’s acting? Or The Front Man’s plot twist? Among all the new cast of “Squid Game” Season 2, there was no larger sensation than the return of former legendary BIGBANG member Choi Seung Hyun—stage name T.O.P. But how did T.O.P end up becoming the actor who played Thanos in “Squid Game” Season 2? And was his performance satisfying enough for a grand comeback in the entertainment industry? Let’s dive deeper into the story behind the scenes with us.
“Squid Game” Season 2 Director Addressed the Casting of Former BIGBANG Member T.O.P
The highly anticipated second season of “Squid Game” has stirred excitement globally, but it’s also sparked heated discussions among Korean local viewers. And that is especially massive when it comes to casting former BIGBANG member T.O.P (Choi Seung Hyun) as the actor who played Thanos in “Squid Game” Season 2.
Known for his involvement in a past marijuana scandal, the former BIGBANG member’s return to the spotlight has drawn mixed reactions from both fans and the general public.
Previously, T.O.P had been sentenced to 10 months in prison with a 2-year suspended sentence in 2016 for marijuana use. He later ended his exclusive contract with YG Entertainment and left the group last year.
At the time, he hinted at retirement, saying he had no plans to return to the entertainment industry. In response to criticism from netizens urging him to reflect on his past actions, he added that he felt sorry for his fans and didn’t want to return to Korea.
“I have no intention of returning.
I always feel sorry for my fans. I won’t be making a comeback in Korea because I don’t want to return at all,”
T.O.P.
Therefore, when news broke of his return through “Squid Game” Season 2, it sparked a strong backlash from many netizens.
Then, in a recent interview, “Squid Game” director Hwang Dong Hyuk eventually shed light on the complexities behind T.O.P’s casting and the intentionality behind his role.
How Did T.O.P End Up Playing Thanos as “Squid Game” Season 2 Actor?
In an interview with Sports Chosun, Hwang Dong Hyuk admitted that he didn’t even think of casting T.O.P as the actor when he created Thanos for “Squid Game” Season 2.
However, as auditions progressed, it became extremely difficult to find someone who could embody the eccentric and morally ambiguous qualities of Thanos’s character. At the time, he was in search of someone who had the qualities to reflect modern-day issues, including cryptocurrency hype and drug culture.
Yet, nobody could fit the precise character he had in mind.
“T.O.P wasn’t initially on our consideration for this Thanos character.
We held lengthy auditions for someone who could fit the role of a hip-hop enthusiast involved in drugs, but I couldn’t find anyone who fit my criteria.
That’s when someone suggested T.O.P.”
Hwang Dong Hyuk.
During this search, T.O.P.’s name came up as a potential fit. And despite initial doubts, Hwang Dong Hyuk eventually saw promising potential in the rapper-turned-actor.
“Initially, I was skeptical. I thought, ‘Hasn’t it been a long time since he quit?’ Despite his past performance as an actor and rapper, he had taken a long break after the marijuana incident.
However, after discussing this with the production team, we decided to contact him. We asked if T.O.P was interested in auditioning for a role in “Squid Game” Season 2.
Considering his long hiatus and the circumstances surrounding his exit from the industry, I wasn’t really expecting much. He also seemed hesitant, probably wondering whether he could play a character so similar to himself—a rapper who ruined his career due to drugs.
But I saw potential. And since T.O.P felt he needed more preparation, I asked him to redo the audition tape.”
Hwang Dong Hyuk.
A Calculated Risk: Why T.O.P’s Role Is Smaller Than You’d Expect
Interestingly, Hwang Dong Hyuk also revealed that while T.O.P’s character may stand out due to his flamboyant personality, his actual screen time in “Squid Game” Season 2 has always been limited.
He also emphasized that the decision to limit T.O.P’s involvement in promotions wasn’t a reaction to public backlash. Instead, it was all part of the original plan.
“Thanos is a character who appears early in the story and exits quickly. It wasn’t intended to be a prominent, central role. However, he does have that flamboyant characteristics that make him stand out.
Despite that, we weren’t actually planning to heavily promote T.O.P from the beginning. Given the sensitive nature of his past, we felt it would be best for him to speak about his role and his journey when he’s ready.”
Hwang Dong Hyuk.
A Bold Move for A Bold Series: Why Did Hwang Dong Hyuk Choose T.O.P Still?
Now, you may be asking yourself: why did Hwang Dong Hyuk insist on choosing T.O.P as one of the cast members in the new season of “Squid Game”? He knew about the controversy, but he still chose him.
“I’ve heard many objections about his casting in Korea, but I doubt the same would happen overseas, especially in countries where marijuana is legal. I was aware of the concerns and criticisms domestically and accepted that there would be a certain degree of backlash.
Still, I couldn’t just cast him aside because the public didn’t fully forgive him. He’s already been out of the limelight for six or seven years. Many entertainers who faced similar controversies have eventually returned.
Therefore, I thought it was time to let audiences decide for themselves—based on his performance—whether he deserves a second chance.
Ultimately, it’s up to the audience to judge whether he’s earned their forgiveness. If he performs well and people accept him, that’s all that matters.”
Hwang Dong Hyuk.
Hwang Dong Hyuk: T.O.P Played Thanos Brilliantly as an Actor in “Squid Game” Season 2
Finally, the director then praised T.O.P for his impeccable portrayal of Thanos.
“Thanos was intended to be an over-the-top character. I deliberately directed it that way.
I envisioned him as someone constantly intoxicated, similar to some of the more flamboyant rappers on ‘Show Me the Money.’ His character was indeed inspired by individuals in that subculture—those who are ‘high’ and tend to go over the top.
In my opinion, T.O.P played the role as intended, so I believe he performed well according to my direction.”
Hwang Dong Hyuk.
But what about you? Do you think T.O.P has made a satisfying comeback as an actor who played Thanos in “Squid Game” Season 2? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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Source: Sports Chosun
