Netflix Reportedly Shelves David Fincher's U.S. Squid Game Spin-Off
Netflix's long-rumored American Squid Game spin-off from acclaimed director David Fincher is reportedly no longer moving forward.
According to a report from The Playlist, later echoed by What's on Netflix, the project—developed under the working title Heckler—has quietly been shelved following executive changes and a shift in Netflix's long-term franchise strategy.
What Was "Heckler"?
The English-language series had been rumored for several years and was widely believed to be David Fincher's next major Netflix television project.
The script was reportedly being written by Dennis Kelly, creator of the original British series Utopia. Although often referred to online as Squid Game: America, the production was reportedly expected to film primarily in the United Kingdom rather than the United States.
Why Was It Reportedly Canceled?
According to the report, the project lost momentum as Netflix reassessed its plans for expanding the Squid Game universe.
Rather than building the franchise around a single American adaptation, Netflix is now reportedly considering localized projects for different international markets, although no new spin-offs have been officially announced.
Netflix has not publicly confirmed or commented on the reported cancellation.
Cate Blanchett Was Never Part of the Project
Following Cate Blanchett's surprise appearance as an American recruiter during the finale of Squid Game, many fans believed it was setting up Fincher's spin-off.
However, the new report claims Blanchett was never attached to Heckler, and her cameo was not created as a direct introduction to the project.
What's Next for David Fincher?
Fincher is currently focused on completing his upcoming Netflix film, the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood follow-up centered on Cliff Booth and starring Brad Pitt.
What his next television project will be remains unknown.
Source:
- The Playlist
- What's on Netflix