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Spoilers ahead for “Squid Game” Season 2.
The second season of “Squid Game” introduces a captivating lineup of antagonists, but one character truly stands out: Thanos, portrayed by the renowned South Korean rapper T.O.P. His flamboyant and chaotic personality makes him a memorable villain amidst the backdrop of a gripping survival story.
Thanos breaks the mold of traditional participants in the deadly games, utilizing his resources to manipulate the situation for his advantage. His character is not just a player but an embodiment of unpredictability, engaging in exuberant antics while others are gripped by fear. T.O.P.’s portrayal injects a unique vibrancy into the series, contributing not only to the plot’s tension but also to its entertainment value.
For those unfamiliar with his music career, T.O.P. brings an extensive background in the K-pop industry, which adds depth to his character in “Squid Game.”
Who plays Thanos in “Squid Game”?
The character of Thanos is brought to life by Choi Seung-Hyun, widely known in the music industry as T.O.P. Before gaining fame, Choi was part of Seoul’s underground rap scene. His leap to popularity came when he joined YG Entertainment, where he was given the stage name T.O.P. by fellow artist Seven.
In 2006, he became the lead rapper in the sensational boy band BigBang, which also featured notable artists like G-Dragon and Taeyang. BigBang not only pioneered K-pop but also made history as the first Korean act on Forbes’ Celebrity 100 list in 2016. Their influence in the K-pop landscape is undeniable, earning them accolades as one of Asia’s top-selling groups.
In addition to his work with BigBang, T.O.P. has pursued solo projects since 2007, with hits like “Turn It Up” and “Doom Dada,” both of which were well-received. However, more recently, he has shifted his focus from music towards his acting and visual arts career. In 2023, he announced his departure from BigBang, marking a new chapter in his professional life.
Thanos was conceived by series creator and director Hwang Dong-hyuk long before T.O.P.’s involvement. His serious dedication to the craft was a significant factor in securing the role, as highlighted by executive producer Kim Ji-yeon.
Does T.O.P. have a history of drug use?
Thanos is portrayed with a distinctive symbol: a large cross necklace filled with various drugs, a creative choice made by Hwang prior to casting T.O.P. However, it’s worth noting that T.O.P. has faced challenges with substance use in real life.
During his mandatory military service in 2017, reports surfaced regarding his prosecution for marijuana use, a substance illegal in South Korea. He accepted a 10-month suspended sentence following his guilty plea. In a public address, he expressed remorse for disappointing his supporters and vowed to rectify his actions.
After this incident, T.O.P. experienced a medical emergency stemming from an overdose on prescribed tranquilizers, further complicating his personal journey. Fortunately, he recovered from the incident, demonstrating resilience in the face of his struggles.
What other roles has T.O.P. starred in?
T.O.P.’s acting journey began in 2007 with the series “I Am Sam” and continued with “Iris” in 2009. His performance in the film “71: Into the Fire” earned him significant acclaim, including awards for Best New Actor, solidifying his reputation as a talented actor. Notably, he also gained recognition for his role in “Commitment” in 2013.
“Squid Game” marks T.O.P.’s return to the screen after a hiatus since starring in the 2017 thriller “Out of Control,” reflecting a significant evolution in his career as he balances his multifaceted talents in music, acting, and art.
Source
www.thewrap.com