Squid Game Snubbed at the Emmys
The Impact of Squid Game
"Squid Game," the Korean survival thriller, has been a massive hit on Netflix, holding the record as the platform’s most-watched series. After much anticipation, the show concluded its three-season journey, with Seasons 2 and 3 continuing to draw large audiences despite not reaching the cultural impact of the first season. In its inaugural season, "Squid Game" captivated award organizations, earning 14 Emmy nominations and taking home six awards in 2022.
Season 2 and 3 Reception
However, the follow-up seasons didn’t capture the same level of acclaim at the Emmy Awards, receiving zero nominations. This was a surprise, given the show’s initial success. Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed disappointment in the lack of recognition despite the show’s ongoing popularity and profound audience engagement.
Netflix’s Emmy Success
While "Squid Game" was overlooked, Netflix still celebrated significant Emmy attention. The crime drama "Adolescence," released in 2025, scored 13 nominations. This includes Owen Cooper’s historic nomination as the youngest best supporting actor. Bajaria highlighted "Adolescence" not only for its storytelling but also for its cultural impact, noting that it sparked discussions influencing UK law. The show became Netflix’s second-biggest English language success, boasting 142 million views.
Competition at the Emmys
Despite the snub of "Squid Game," Netflix ended up with 120 nominations overall, placing second to HBO’s 142 nominations. Other Netflix series like "Black Mirror," "Sirens," "Bridgerton," and "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story" also contributed to the platform’s Emmy success. The award ceremony is set for September 14, where these shows will compete for top honors.
Bajaria’s Perspective
Bajaria reflected on Netflix’s Emmy journey, noting that although "Squid Game" didn’t make the cut this year, the platform’s diverse slate of content still received significant recognition. She underlined the importance of storytelling and cultural resonance, as seen with "Adolescence" and other nominated shows.
In conclusion, while "Squid Game" missed out at this year’s Emmys, Netflix’s varied offerings continue to achieve critical and cultural success, underscoring the platform’s impact on the entertainment industry.
