Netflix Denies Reports of “Serious Injury” and Neglect on ‘Squid Game’ Reality Series

Let the games begin… I guess! Netflix has responded to reports of neglect on the set of their upcoming Squid Game reality series, which is based on the fictional hit Korean drama. After it was alleged that contestants spent “hours” in freezing cold weather and faced medical issues while filming in the U.K., the streamer says contestants were well cared for and did not experience and serious health issues.

Netflix denied the claims, stating that “participants were prepared” for the weather claims, per Deadline. Netflix added, “Any claims of serious injury are untrue.”

The statement concluded with, “We care deeply about the health and safety of our cast and crew, and invested in all the appropriate safety procedures.”

Earlier this week, The Sun reported that contestants were competing in the show’s “Red Light, Green Light” game for hours, standing motionless in 26-degree weather.

An insider told the outlet, “It was like a warzone. People left in tears,” and alleged that one player was carried away on a stretcher.

The source added, “People were getting carried out by medics but we couldn’t say anything. If you talk then you’re out.”

They continued to claim that “some people couldn’t move their feet because it was so cold,” and alleged “some were crawling by the end.” Another source told The Sun, “When we got there it was freezing” and said that no heaters were provided. “They gave us two thermals, two socks, a shirt, plimsolls and green tracksuits.”

In a statement to The Sun, Netflix argued, “All contestants were prepared by production several weeks ago that they would be playing a game in cold conditions and participated knowing this. All precautions were taken to ensure the game was played safely.”

The reality series sees 456 contestants competing for a $4.56 million prize through games inspired by the popular Netflix show. The original series provided heavy commentary on class disparity and capitalism – seeing that the losing contestants in the series were killed during their endeavor to win the grand prize.

Upon the announcement of the reality series, critics expressed that Netflix’s reality show was the antithesis of the original series. These concerns were brought to show creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, who said in September 2022, “What I hope is that they will be carrying on my vision and intention as much as possible for the show,” and added, “I feel like when you take things too seriously, that’s really not the best way to go for the entertainment industry.”

Well, regardless of who’s saying what, we sincerely hope nobody dies this time around.