There’s some disappointing news for fans of Netflix’s Squid Game, as the English-language spin-off has reportedly been scrapped. According to The Playlist, the streamer is no longer moving forward with the series, which was being developed by Mindhunter’s David Fincher.
Known by its working title Heckler, the show was initially pitched as an American version of the Korean thriller, with production expected to take place in the UK.
Utopia’s Dennis Kelly was on board to write the series, which has now been shelved reportedly due to Netflix’s shifting priorities.
Netflix
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However, it’s not all bad news as the cancellation will apparently make way for other versions of the show, which will expand the franchise internationally. Netflix is said to be interested in exploring individual series, tailored to specific countries such as France or Norway.
While these examples are purely speculative for now, it seems the American spin-off is officially dead in the water.
Digital Spy has reached out to Netflix for comment.
Heckler was first rumoured to be in the works back in 2024, with Fincher at the helm. Many fans thought Cate Blanchett’s cameo in the season 3 finale would serve as a segue to the American version, however her involvement was never confirmed.
Netflix
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Furthermore, while claims of filming schedules and production details have been circulating for a few years, Netflix has never officially confirmed the series.
Elsewhere, Fincher is currently working on The Adventures of Cliff Booth, the highly anticipated sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Written by Quentin Tarantino, the movie picks up eight years after the events of the original and follows former stuntman Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) in his new role as a Hollywood ‘studio fixer’.
The sequel will have a limited cinematic release this November, before arriving on Netflix on 23 December.
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Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a “telly addict” since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information.