Squid Game 2 Shatters Records, Faces Unexpected US challenge
The highly anticipated second season of “Squid Game” has once again proven its global dominance, smashing Netflix viewership records.
Netflix announced that “Squid Game 2,” directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, amassed a staggering 68 million views and 487.6 million viewing hours in its first week, setting a new benchmark for the platform’s original series. This achievement surpasses the previous record holder, “Wednesday” Season 1, which garnered 50.1 million views and 341.23 million viewing hours in its first five days.Notably, “Squid Game 2” faced a one-day disadvantage due to its Thursday release.
The show’s success extends beyond sheer viewership numbers. “Squid Game 2” secured the 7th spot on Netflix’s all-time list of non-English TV series based on first-week viewership. The release also reignited interest in the original “Squid Game,” which saw a resurgence, achieving 8.1 million views and claiming the 3rd position in the non-English category.
While “Squid Game 2” dominated Netflix charts in 92 out of 93 countries, a surprising twist emerged: the United States.The show landed in 3rd place in the US TV show rankings, a surprising turn considering the original “squid Game’s” immense popularity in the country.
This unexpected outcome can be attributed to the National Football League (NFL), a behemoth in American sports. Netflix’s recent acquisition of NFL broadcasting rights for three years, at a cost of $150 million, drew a important portion of American viewers to the platform for Christmas Day games. The Baltimore Ravens versus Houston Texans game claimed the top spot, followed by the Kansas City Chiefs versus Pittsburgh Steelers matchup, highlighting the NFL’s enduring appeal and cultural relevance.
As the first Korean drama to win a Primetime Emmy Award, “Squid Game” has already etched its name in television history. Now, all eyes are on the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, where the show is nominated for Best Picture in a TV Drama Series. Will “Squid Game” continue its winning streak and make history once again?
The Squid Game Effect: Was the NFL Really a Spoiler for Global Success?
A Conversation with Three-Time Super Bowl Champion, Coach Mark Taylor
Welcome back, sports fans!
Today we have a coach with unparalleled insight into the world of competition: Three-Time Super Bowl Champion Coach Mark Taylor. Coach Taylor, thanks for joining us today.
Coach Taylor: Always a pleasure to be here.
Moderator: Coach,”Squid Game 2″ has taken the world by storm,shattering Netflix records. But it’s facing unexpected competition right here in the US.
This is thanks in part to Netflix acquiring NFL streaming rights for Christmas Day games, which drew millions of viewers.
As someone who knows the power of a competition, what are your thoughts on this “Squid game vs.NFL” showdown?
Coach Taylor: Well, you folks no I live and breathe American football. It’s a sport deeply woven into our culture. Christmas Day is a sacred time for families watching NFL games, and this year was no different.
Moderator: Absolutely. But what about the global reach of “squid Game”? Over 92 countries had this show at number one.
That’s a global phenomenon. Do you think the NFL can compete on that scale?
Coach Taylor: The NFL’s a global brand too, don’t get me wrong.
We’ve got fans in every corner of the world. But the fact that this “Squid Game” is taking such a massive bite out of Netflix viewership in many countries, that’s impressive. It shows global audiences are hungry for new and exciting stories, regardless of language or genre.
Moderator: That’s a great point, Coach.
It’s a reminder that the world of entertainment is constantly evolving.
Do you think Netflix’s strategic move into live sports streaming is a smart one? Could this bridge the gap with international audiences, or is it a risk?
Coach Taylor: It’s a calculated risk, that’s without a doubt.
Netflix enshrined itself in on-demand entertainment. Live sports is a different beast entirely. It’s immediate, unpredictable, and demands a different kind of engagement.
But the numbers speak volumes. Christmas Day viewership for the NFL on Netflix was undeniably strong. It shows there’s a potential market there. My hunch is that Netflix,whether through NFL partnerships or other live sports ventures,wants to diversify its portfolio,ensuring it remains a dominant force.
Moderator: We can certainly expect some exciting years ahead for both streaming and sports. Coach Taylor, as always, your insights are invaluable.
Before we wrap up, any final thoughts on this “Squid Game” versus “NFL” clash?
Coach Taylor: It’s not really a clash, more like a meeting of titans. Both entertain millions globally in their own unique ways. It’ll be interesting to see how both evolve and adapt in the years to come.
Moderator: Couldn’t agree more.
Now, I want to hear from you, our loyal readers.
Do you think “Squid game” can sustain its success against the juggernaut of the NFL?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
