Mai Whelan has at last received her eagerly anticipated $4.56 million payout following her victory in Squid Game: The Challenge.
The Netflix competition series had captivated audiences worldwide during the final months of 2023, delivering a nail-biting competition that featured the largest prize in the history of reality TV.
The game show drew inspiration from the acclaimed Korean TV series (minus any actual fatalities), subjecting participants to grueling challenges in their quest to claim the staggering $4.56 million prize.
Having faced off against 456 competitors, the 55-year-old contestant, an immigration adjudicator, emerged victorious and was crowned the fortunate winner in the concluding episode that aired on December 6.
Mai Whelan is the winner of Squid Game: The Challenge. Credit: Roy Rochlin / Getty
Whelan secured her triumph on Squid Game: The Challenge by winning a game of Rock, Paper, Scissors against her fellow competitor, Phill Cain, in the series finale.
“I don’t know whether to cry or cheer. I’m at a loss for what to do,” she confided to her opponent shortly after clinching the significant prize.
In a confessional interview, the Virginia native opened up about her achievement, stating, “Today just validates that anything is possible. Even when you feel down and afraid, you have to pick yourself up, be a strong person, and focus,” as reported by PEOPLE.
“Fight whatever you fear with everything you’ve got, and you can accomplish anything. And I’ve proven that tonight. I am the winner,” added Whelan.
The cast of Squid Game: The Challenge at the Trials Live Experience Space on November 30, 2023. Credit: Joe Scarnici / Getty
After the series concluded, Whelan disclosed to the Times that she did not receive any portion of the million-dollar fund. She humorously remarked, “I feel like Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, Show me the money!”
During that period, a source closely connected to the production conveyed that the series winner was informed about the payment schedule and is now poised to receive the prize fund following the broadcast of the Season 1 finale.
Whelan can now enjoy some well-deserved relaxation, as payday has finally arrived after an arduous 11 months, according to a report from PEOPLE.
After splurging on Ralph Lauren and Jimmy Choo items, Whelan’s current plan is to search for a “retirement home somewhere.” He mentioned, “We don’t know where yet, and we are happy with where we are. We live on the water. It’s very peaceful.”
The recipient of the winnings also aims to make a positive impact with her substantial amount, expressing to Entertainment Tonight, “I have charitable causes I want to contribute more to,” such as “sponsoring kids receiving education and assisting the elderly with their basic needs and healthcare. Additionally, I want to support wildlife conservation and address climate concerns.”
She elaborated, “I believe these causes are crucial to shaping our perception of the world, ensuring that we can all coexist and relish it, not just for us in the present moment.”
Following her triumph on the show, Whelan has remained engaged on Instagram, posting videos showcasing her affection for animals in distress and capturing moments with her supporters.
