Cate Blanchett appears as an American recruiter in Squid Game Season 3's final scene. Playing a polished, wealthy woman in Los Angeles, she approaches a homeless man with a familiar offer: a game of ddakji for money.
Her brief but electrifying cameo confirms that Squid Game isn't limited to South Korea—the deadly competition has gone global.
The Final Scene Explained
Setting: Los Angeles The finale's last minutes shift to America. We see Blanchett's character—dressed impeccably, radiating wealth—approaching a desperate homeless man on Skid Row.
The Familiar Game: She offers him a wad of cash if he can beat her at ddakji. He loses. She offers double or nothing. The scene mirrors the Salesman's approach to Gi-hun in Season 1, but now on American soil.
The Business Card: When the homeless man takes the card, we see the familiar shapes: circle, triangle, square. The Squid Game organization has crossed the Pacific.
The Eye Contact: In the scene's final moment, Blanchett's recruiter locks eyes with someone across the street—the Front Man, watching from a distance. The games are about to begin again.
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What This Means for the Franchise
American Version Confirmed: Blanchett's appearance essentially confirms an American Squid Game is coming. Whether it's a direct sequel, a spinoff, or a parallel story, the deadly games are coming to the United States.
David Fincher Connection: Director David Fincher has been attached to an American Squid Game project. Blanchett's involvement suggests A-list Hollywood talent is committed to the expansion.
New VIPs, New Games: American games would likely feature different challenges—perhaps deadly versions of classic American games rather than Korean ones. Red Rover? Four Square? The possibilities are chilling.
The Front Man's Role: In-ho's presence in LA suggests he may continue as a major figure, possibly serving as a bridge between the Korean and American versions.
Why Hwang Dong-hyuk Cast Blanchett
In interviews, creator Hwang Dong-hyuk explained his casting choice:
"Cate represents a certain kind of American power—glamorous, articulate, and absolutely ruthless. She's the perfect face for a system that chews up the vulnerable while looking beautiful."
The Juxtaposition: Blanchett's elegance against LA's homeless crisis creates the same class commentary that made Squid Game resonate globally. The games feed on inequality, and America has plenty to offer.
Her Interest: Blanchett reportedly pursued the role after becoming a fan of the original series. Her cameo was filmed in secret to preserve the surprise.
What We Know About the American Spinoff
- Set primarily in Los Angeles
- Will feature American childhood games with deadly twists
- David Fincher attached to direct at least the first episode
- Cate Blanchett expected in a major role
- May premiere in 2026-2027
- Could feature cameos from Korean cast
- Might explore VIP origins (many VIPs speak English)
- Could introduce new game formats
Hwang's Involvement: Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk serves as executive producer but may not write or direct. He's described passing the torch to trusted collaborators who understand the show's themes.