The director of Squid Game 3 has revealed his dream casting for a potential US adaptation, naming Leonardo DiCaprio as his top choice to play the lead role originally portrayed by Lee Jung Jae.
During a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Hwang Dong Hyuk discussed rumors about an American version of the hit Netflix series. When asked about his ideal cast, he confirmed that Leonardo DiCaprio was his first pick to take on the role of Seong Gi-hun, the main character in the original Korean series.
“We had a lot of rumors about him [DiCaprio]—whether he will make a cameo and such. If he were to do it, I think he would do well as a player. Lately, he’s gotten good at loser roles like Gi Hun’s,” Hwang said.
The discussion came up when the Squid Game 3 cast, including Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and Im Si Wan, were asked to guess who Hwang would want for an American version. While Lee Byung Hun jokingly suggested Adam Sandler, Im Si Wan correctly guessed DiCaprio, which Hwang confirmed.
Is An American Squid Game Spinoff Really Happening?
Despite rumors, Hwang clarified that Netflix has not officially confirmed an American adaptation. Reports had suggested that David Fincher (director of Mindhunter and Fight Club) might helm the project, with filming possibly starting in December 2025. However, Hwang stated that no official offer has been made yet.
“If I were officially asked, I’d seriously consider it,” he said, leaving the door open for future discussions.
The speculation about an American version intensified after Cate Blanchett appeared in a surprise cameo in Squid Game 3 as a recruiter for a US-based version of the deadly games. However, Hwang explained that her appearance was meant to be a symbolic ending rather than a setup for a spinoff.
Why Leonardo DiCaprio Could Be Perfect For The Role
Hwang’s choice of DiCaprio makes sense given the actor’s recent roles. In films like Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and The Revenant, DiCaprio has played complex, struggling characters—similar to Gi-hun, a down-on-his-luck gambler who enters the Squid Game out of desperation.
Fans have also pointed out that DiCaprio has experience with dark, survival-themed stories (The Revenant, The Beach), making him a strong fit for the brutal world of Squid Game.
Fan Reactions To The Casting Idea
The idea of DiCaprio leading an American version has sparked mixed reactions online. Some fans are excited, while others feel the original Korean cast can’t be replaced.
“Leo would kill it as Gi-hun, but no one can beat Lee Jung Jae’s performance.” – Twitter user @KDRAMALOVER
“If they do an American version, it needs its own identity, not just a copy of the original.” – Reddit user u/Cinephile2025
Others have suggested alternative actors, such as Joaquin Phoenix or Andrew Garfield, who have also played emotionally intense roles in the past.
What’s Next For The Squid Game Franchise?
While Squid Game 3 marked the end of the original series, Netflix is still expanding the franchise. The reality competition Squid Game: The Challenge has been renewed for a second season, and a video game adaptation is also in development.
Also read: T.O.P Makes First Public Appearance in 3 Years at Squid Game 3 Event With Slimmer Look
If an American version moves forward, it would be the first scripted English-language extension of the Squid Game universe. However, for now, it remains just a possibility—one that could depend on whether Leonardo DiCaprio is interested in joining.
Sources: Vanity Fair, Netflix, Twitter fan reactions.
