Hwang Dong-hyuk explains Gi-hun's fate, Cate Blanchett's cameo, and if Netflix is planning an American 'Squid Game' spinoff
Netflix’s global juggernaut Squid Game concluded with a powerful final scene and a thought-provoking message — not to set up a sequel, but to underline the persistence of the system it condemns. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has broken his silence on the final moments, confirming that the appearance of a mysterious American recruiter, played by Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett, was not designed to launch a direct spinoff — though he's open to watching one if it happens.
Squid Game's creator addresses the Cate Blanchett cameo and U.S. spinoff rumors. Hwang Dong-hyuk opens up about Gi-hun’s fate and that cryptic finale.
Cate Blanchett as the Los Angeles recruiter in the series finale of Squid Game.
Lee Jung-jae as Seong Gi-hun (right) with a Pink Guard.
Netflix
The ending of Season 3 leaves protagonist Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) with a symbolic sacrifice, reinforcing the thematic weight of the series. Gi-hun’s journey, originally conceived as a path toward reunion with his daughter in America, evolved into a final act of defiance and message-bearing — one that serves as both closure and commentary.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Hwang revealed that the powerful presence of Blanchett was chosen not for her star power alone, but for the gravity she brings to a single line and a lingering stare. That moment between The Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) and the American recruiter encapsulated the cyclical nature of the global system the show critiques — a system of relentless competition, wealth disparity, and moral erosion.
Netflix
According to Hwang, the idea of an American ‘Squid Game’ wasn’t part of his original vision. The final shot, which has sparked speculation and fan theories, was intended as a narrative conclusion emphasizing that the Games may have ended in Korea but remain deeply embedded elsewhere. He stressed that the series was meant to end with impact, not a cliffhanger.
Blanchett’s casting was the result of deliberate creative contrast. Unlike Korea’s male recruiters, the presence of a woman — especially one as commanding as Blanchett — brought new nuance to the global reach of the Games. Hwang noted her ability to dominate the screen with just one look, making her the ideal choice for such a brief yet memorable role.
Rumors of director David Fincher spearheading a U.S.-based version remain unconfirmed. Hwang has read the reports, just like the rest of the audience, but has received no official word from Netflix. Still, he admits he would be intrigued — and eager — to watch Fincher’s vision unfold, should it become reality.
Netflix
Gi-hun’s final line, “Humans are...,” remains unfinished, intentionally so. Hwang resisted defining humanity in absolute terms, choosing instead to pose a question to the audience. His goal wasn’t to label what people are, but to highlight what we should be. Through Gi-hun’s ultimate decision, he offers a vision of hope, sacrifice, and resistance to a world teetering on the edge of moral collapse.
The third season’s ending isn’t just the close of Gi-hun’s journey — it’s a broader reflection on the human condition. Violence, greed, and exploitation might keep repeating, but so can resistance, integrity, and the power of people coming together. For Hwang Dong-hyuk, that’s the message worth leaving behind.
Squid Game Season 3 is now streaming globally on Netflix.
