Ex-BIGBANG member T.O.P omitted from 'Squid Game Season 2' poster and cast list

T.O.P is omitted from 'Squid Game Season 2' poster and cast list, sparking discussion amid past legal issues.

Netflix's eagerly awaited Squid Game Season 2 has been at the center of discussions following the absence of T.O.P (real name Choi Seung Hyun) from the official cast list and second poster, despite his brief but striking appearance in the first teaser. In the teaser, T.O.P, sporting purple hair, delivered a chilling line during the "Red Light, Green Light" game, hinting at a pivotal role in the series.

However, when the new Squid Game Season 2 poster was released, T.O.P's image was noticeably absent, and his name was missing from the official cast and guest list. This has raised questions among fans, especially after his inclusion in the teaser raised expectations.

Reports suggest that T.O.P's exclusion may be tied to the backlash from his previous legal issues. In 2017, the singer-actor was given a 10-month prison term and two years of probation following a charge for marijuana use in 2016.

This controversy may have influenced the decision to distance the show from potential negative publicity surrounding his involvement.

While T.O.P’s involvement in the series appeared to mark a major comeback for the former BIGBANG member, the ongoing criticism seems to have played a role in his reduced presence in the promotion of the highly anticipated show.

The new season of Squid Game will continue the story of Gi Hun (played by Lee Jung Jae) as he seeks revenge and faces off against the enigmatic Front Man (played by Lee Byung Hun). Despite the controversy, Squid Game Season 2 is still expected to be one of Netflix's most-watched shows of 2024.