HOUSTON – ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ is the brand new reality competition show that is so popular it has been the number one show streaming on Netflix since it premiered three weeks ago.
Based on the 2021 scripted Netflix hit “Squid Game,” the reality show comes with a hefty cash prize of $4.56 million.
For local real estate broker with CBRE and former restaurateur Thomas Nguyen, participating in the show was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.
“Squid Game is one of my favorite shows of all time and when I saw the casting online I said - I’ve got to be a part of this. I think I was made for this show and Netflix agreed – at least for the first season.”
Nguyen knew going in that he would have to stay focused.
“I think it’s important to have a strong, Asian male figure on TV. I was an attorney, I went to an elite law school – UT – I started what is now the largest Asian fraternity in Texas.”
Aside from being mentally taxing, this competition show is also physically grueling.
“I’ve done marathons, I’ve done two Ironman’s so I think both mentally and physically I was made for this show.”
When asked about some of the challenges of competing in a show like this, it’s clear that family comes first.
“I’ve never been apart from my wife like that and not having that communication – that was something I don’t really want to go through again, that was difficult.”
Still, Thomas admits he will be applying to participate in the second season of the show now that Netflix has officially given it the green light.
“Being thrown into a room with 400 other strangers – it was something I’ll never forget. It was out of my comfort zone but I’m happy with how I played it.”
‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ is streaming now on Netflix.
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