A fresh chapter in the reality TV show lovers came to an end when Mai Whelan won Squid Game: The Challenge and took the biggest cash prize with her. For those who are unaware, Squid Game: The Challenge on Netflix was inspired by the South Korean drama Squid Games. While in Squid Games people died after losing the game, Squid Game: The Challenge turned into a 'real-life' game show, except people did not die in this. The makers of Squid Game: The Challenge had announced that the winner will take $4.56 million to their home. Talking about Squid Game: The Challenge winner, Mai Whelan defeated Sam Lantz (player 016), and Phill Cain (player 451) in the finale.
Now the question arises who is Mai Whelan, Squd Games Challenge winner? Below is what we know about her-
Who is Mai Whelan?
As per reports, Mai Whelan, 55, is a Vietnamese refugee who moved to the United States after suffering a near-death experience there. She took part in the Netflix reality show after 20 years of service in the US Navy and a career as an immigration adjudicator for the Department of Homeland Security.
After the completion of the show, US media reported that Mai returned to her husband, two kids, grandkids, and dog. She did say that she spent money on a beaded Ralph Lauren gown to wear to the premiere. Furthermore, the Squid Games winner was quoted saying that she is also planning a small home renovation and adding a dock for her boat, then donating to efforts surrounding animals and climate change. Mai has also started her Instagram page after her success in the Netflix show.
Meanwhile, Netflix has announced a second season of The Squid Games: The Challenge, which reportedly amassed 20.1 million views in the first five days since its premiere on November 22, 2023.