Mai Whelan has at last received her eagerly anticipated $4.56 million prize following her victory in Squid Game: The Challenge.
The Netflix competition series had captivated audiences worldwide in the final months of 2023, as the tension-filled contest presented the largest prize in the history of reality television.
The game show drew inspiration from the acclaimed Korean TV series (with no actual fatalities, of course), subjecting participants to grueling trials in pursuit of the astonishing $4.56 million prize.
After facing off against 456 competitors, the 55-year-old contestant, an immigration adjudicator, clinched victory in the thrilling final episode 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’m torn between crying and cheering. I’m just at a loss for what to do,” she confided in her opponent shortly after clinching the major prize.
In a confessional interview, the Virginia native reflected on her achievement, remarking, “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.
“Whatever your fear is, fight it with everything you’ve got, and you can accomplish anything. And I’ve proven that tonight. I am the winner,” Whelan declared emphatically.
The cast of Squid Game: The Challenge at the Trials Live Experience Space on November 30, 2023. Credit: Joe Scarnici / Getty
In the aftermath of the series, Whelan disclosed to the Times that she hadn’t received a single cent of the million-dollar fund, humorously remarking, “I feel like Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, Show me the money!”
At that time, a source close to production indicated that the series winner was informed about the payment plan and is scheduled to receive the prize fund now that the season 1 finale has aired.
Whelan can now breathe a sigh of relief as payday has finally arrived after enduring a challenging 11 months, as reported by PEOPLE.
Whelan’s next step, after indulging in some Ralph Lauren and Jimmy Choo purchases, is to seek out “a retirement home somewhere.” He elaborates, saying, “We don’t know where yet, and we are content with our current location. We reside by the water, enjoying its serene tranquility.”
The winner also intends to make a positive impact with her substantial winnings, expressing to Entertainment Tonight, “I have charitable causes I want to further support,” such as “sponsoring children’s education and assisting the elderly with their fundamental needs and healthcare. Additionally, I’m passionate about supporting wildlife conservation efforts and addressing climate concerns.”
“I believe these causes are crucial for shaping our worldview, ensuring that everyone can live in and enjoy our world, not just us in the present moment,” she elaborated.
Since her triumph on the show, Whelan has been active on Instagram, posting videos showcasing her dedication to helping animals in need and capturing moments with her supporters through photographs.
Season 1 of Squid Game: The Challenge is available for streaming on Netflix now.
