Seoul: For rapper-turned-actor Choi Seung-hyun, portraying the eccentric drug addict Thanos in "Squid Game" Season 2 was both a cathartic and challenging experience, as the role compelled him to confront the "mistakes" from his past. "I gave it a lot of thought before accepting the role, as the character forced me to confront the embarrassing mistakes of my past," he said during an interview with local media Wednesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Choi expressed his concerns about the role potentially solidifying his image as a drug addict. Yet he also felt a connection to the character, believing it might be a part he was destined to play. The actor appeared introspective, contrasting sharply with the loud, restless character he portrayed in the series. Thanos, a purple-haired villain, masks his desperation to rebuild his life after losing his wealth in a cryptocurrency investment through impulsive and bizarre behavior fueled by drug use.
Choi, known by his stage name T.O.P, is a rapper and singer-songwriter from the boy band BIGBANG. In 2017, he faced a drug scandal and was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, for marijuana use. Following BIGBANG's single "Still Life" in April 2022, he announced his departure from the group.
Reflecting on the seven years between the drug controversy and his role in "Squid Game," Choi described himself as "psychologically devastated" and "completely broken." He recalled the darkness he experienced, leading to impulsive actions, including a sarcastic statement about leaving the entertainment industry after a fan's comment in 2019 and a subsequent declaration during an Instagram livestream in 2020 that he would not make a comeback in Korea.
Choi shared that he isolated himself, alternating between his music studio and home, finding solace only in creating music. The opportunity to audition for "Squid Game" came from director Hwang, who offered a chance despite Choi's tarnished reputation, prompting Choi to honor the trust placed in him.
Engaging in extensive discussions with the director, Choi helped shape Thanos as a character who stands out with a cartoonish, exaggerated attitude. He focused on highlighting the contrast in the character's behavior pre- and post-drug use. Thanos serves as a central figure in conveying the director's commentary on social issues affecting youth, embodying a fallen, immature figure representing negative aspects of the younger generation.
Choi found courage in accepting the role due to Thanos's flawed nature, noting, "I wouldn't have accepted the offer if it weren't for the character. I found the courage to take it on because he is not a righteous man."