How and why Squid Game Season 2 secured a Golden Globe nomination before its release

The yet-to-be-released second season of the global phenomenon Squid Game has already made headlines, securing a prestigious Golden Globe nomination.

While fans eagerly anticipate its December 26 premiere on Netflix, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) has recognized the series by nominating it for Best Drama Series alongside contenders like The Day of the Jackal, The Diplomat, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and Slow Horses.

The nomination has sparked discussions about the HFPA's unconventional approach, as the second season has yet to be viewed by general audiences.


However, industry insiders reveal that early screeners of Squid Game Season 2 were made available to the voting body, allowing it to qualify for the 2025 awards cycle, as mentioned in a report by Salon

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HFPA's Rules and Early Recognition

The HFPA’s guidelines allow shows to be considered if they premiere within the calendar year and submit episodes or screeners for evaluation before a stipulated deadline.

For the 2025 Golden Globes, this deadline was November 4, 2024.

Netflix, leveraging its confidence in Squid Game’s legacy and anticipated impact, provided the required material in advance, securing its place in the nomination list even before the global audience could experience the new season, as mentioned in the report by Salon.

This practice, while uncommon, isn’t entirely new. According to The Hollywood Reporter, HFPA voters have previously nominated unreleased films and series based on early access. For Squid Game Season 2, this strategy underscores the faith in the series’ ability to deliver another gripping narrative.

The Legacy of "Squid Game"

The first season of Squid Game premiered in 2021 and became a cultural and entertainment juggernaut, earning three Golden Globe nominations in 2022.

Notably, Oh Young-soo, who portrayed the enigmatic Player 001, won South Korea's first-ever Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor.

With its dystopian premise of financially desperate individuals competing in deadly children’s games for a life-changing cash prize, Squid Game resonated with audiences worldwide, blending sharp social commentary with edge-of-the-seat suspense.

What to Expect from Season 2

The second season, written and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, promises to expand on the dark, suspense-filled universe introduced in Season 1.

While fan favorites like Lee Jung-jae and Lee Byung-hun return, the new cast, including Park Gyu-young, Jo Yu-ri, and Lee David, adds fresh dimensions to the story.

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Season 2 will consist of seven episodes, all set to release simultaneously on December 26, making for an intense binge-watching experience.

FAQs

Can you watch Squid Game season 2?
Squid Game Season 2 is set to premiere on Netflix on December 26, 2024.

Is Squid Game season 3 confirmed?
Season 3 has been confirmed and is set to be the show’s final installment, scheduled for release next year.