Netflix are facing contemplating legal action from contestants of Squid Game: The Challenge, after two participants experienced hypothermia and nerve damage in chilly conditions at Cardington Studios. Despite acknowledging medical attention for three players, Netflix denied serious injuries.
(Photo : Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Netflix)
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 19: Squid Game guards are seen onstage during the FYSEE FALL EDITION at NeueHouse Hollywood on November 19, 2023 in Hollywood, California.
Denying Serious Injuries
Contestants from Squid Game: The Challenge are considering legal recourse against both Netflix and the show's producers, asserting injuries sustained during the filming process. Two unidentified participants, represented by a British personal injuries law firm, allege experiencing hypothermia and nerve damage while shooting in chilly UK conditions.
Deadline reported that express Solicitors disclosed that letters of claim have been dispatched to Studio Lambert, the co-producer of the Netflix series Squid Game: The Challenge.
The filming of the game took place at Cardington Studios, a former Royal Air Force base in Bedford, during a cold spell in the UK. At that time, Netflix acknowledged that three out of the 456 players needed medical attention.
They explained that despite the onset of hypothermia, participants were determined to endure the cold for as long as necessary due to significant financial stakes. Many chose to remain motionless for an extended period, standing in the cold.
Additionally, they asserted that at least one individual had to be carried out on a stretcher. However, sources connected to the production refuted this statement, asserting that no one required a stretcher.
The contestants expressed their initial belief that they were engaging in a fun activity, unaware of the extent of the challenges they would face. Now, they find themselves grappling with injuries resulting from prolonged, agonizing stress positions in the cold temperatures of the studio.
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Forbes reported that express Solicitors, specializing in no win no fee claims, asserted that its clients jeopardized their well-being by being required to maintain motionless positions for extended periods during the shoot, all in an effort to stay in the competition.
Daniel Slade, CEO of Express Solicitors, acknowledged the potential perception of a classic David and Goliath battle with the company and its production partners. Contestants, initially expecting a fun experience, found themselves unexpectedly dealing with injuries after enduring painful stress positions in cold temperatures.
Netflix's Response
According to a spokesperson for Squid Game: The Challenge, as reported by Deadline, no legal action has been initiated by any of the contestants from Squid Game. The spokesperson emphasized the show's serious commitment to the well-being of its participants.
Speaking on behalf of the platform, Studio Lambert, and The Garden (another producer of the show), conveyed that they prioritize the health and safety of their cast and crew.
The Independent reported that the statement affirmed the implementation of comprehensive safety procedures and addressed claims of serious injury, stating that such assertions are unfounded, despite the cold conditions on set.
Britain's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) conducted an evaluation of the show's procedures, ultimately closing the case. In their guidance to producers, the HSE underscored the importance of meticulous planning to address potential risks in future filming, emphasizing the need for comprehensive risk assessment and preparation.
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