Former BIGBANG T.O.P’s Appearance In “Squid Game 2” Eschewed By Audiences Despite Director Speaking Up
Former BIGBANG‘s T.O.P stars in Squid Game 2, the highly anticipated follow-up to the smash hit series. He plays one of the contestants on the show.
Regarding his casting, the director spoke up as to why he was cast. T.O.P’s appearance sparked controversy due to his past records for drug abuse. According to the director, T.O.P had shown tenacity in auditioning for the role.
We screened him a lot. He showed strong will and also underwent auditions. We asked him to send a tape, and he sent a video that he worked hard in taking of him acting. Whenever he showed signs of instability [in acting] in readings, we screened him again, and he showed much effort and talent. And he is also an actor that I’ve had my eye on since the past… Although his casting was scandalous, we went through too many processes with him such that we could not overturn [the casting]. We decided that we had no choice but to prove to the viewers through the final result as to why this character and work had to go to T.O.P. That was why we did not cancel it and pressed through with it.
— Director Hwang
Despite the director speaking up, netizens were not impressed by his casting.
- Wow, I didn’t know that you could become an actor just because you want to. Since when? LOL, can’t believe that that’s their excuse.
- I’m not watching. A criminal is appearing in it shamelessly. Barf.
- Why did they squeeze Lee Jin Wook in?
- Huh? Aren’t there many more actors who are desperate to appear, and don’t have criminal recods?
- Why is Lee Jin Wook in it?
- Did he need courage to appear as a failed idol [for the role?]
Previously, T.O.P himself admitted to consuming marijuana on several occasions. You can read more about it here. Catch the official teaser for Squid Game 2 below.
