Articles by Aaliyah Rugg

Technology

Where is Squid Game The Challenge's Season 1 winner now?

Netflix's popular reality show has finally returned to screens as 456 players will take on a series of brutal games . Season 2 of Squid Game: The Challenge is available to stream from today (November 4) with players all vying for the chance to win a life changing $4.56 million cash prize. The hit Netflix reality show, based on the popular Korean thriller Squid Game , was a huge success when it first hit screens back in 2023. While in the original fictional series players are killed if they lose, that is not the case in the reality spin-off - but there will still be devastating impacts as contestants miss out on winning the life-changing amount of money up for grabs. Over three weeks, the players will go head to head in a number of gruelling games, both new and old, until there is only one contestant left. Netflix teases: "The Emmy nominated and BAFTA winning global sensation Squid Game: The Challenge returns for a gripping second season. This time, 456 brand-new contestants will enter the ultimate test of strategy, alliances, and endurance as they compete for a life-changing $4.56 million prize. "Inspired by the iconic original series with shocking new twists and never-before-seen games season two raises the stakes higher than ever. As players face elimination at every turn, only one can emerge victorious. New players. New games. New rules." With a brand new season arriving on screens today, we've taken a look at the winner of Season 1 and where they are now. Back in 2023, Mai Whelan was crowned the winner of the brand new reality show. Also known as Mother Mai, or player 287 - the star beat Sam (Player 016) and Phill (Player 451) and took home a huge $4.56 million in the season finale. At the time, Mai opened up about being on the show as she admitted every day was a "fear". Speaking to Netflix's Tudum, Mai added: "Every day was fear for me — fear of getting eliminated, or fear of getting picked on. It was a real fear coming from deep inside me." With some contestants displaying "Jekyll and Hyde" behaviour, Mai defeated all odds in the brutal game, despite being one of the older players at the time aged 55. Speaking to Netflix's Tudum after she won the show, Mai revealed what she would do with her winnings, including renovating her home. She added: "My heart is with people, animals, and climate change. "If we continue what we’re doing, there won’t be a future for all the little kids growing up right now." Since the show, Mai's life drastically changed. According to her Instagram page, Mai is now an author and philanthropist. She adds that she is: "Passionate about changing the world through community & non-profits." Just this year, the star, who continues to live in America with her husband and dogs , launched her very own YouTube channel called Mother Mai: The Series. The channel reads: "Mai Whelan, the inspiring winner of Netflix's hit reality series Squid Game: The Challenge, is thrilled to announce the launch of her new YouTube series, premiering in November 2024. "With her prize money, Mai will travel across the country to highlight non-profit organizations making significant contributions toward positive change in their communities and beyond. "In her series, Mai visits various non-profits, sharing their stories and showcasing their impactful work. From grassroots initiatives to established organizations, this project aims to shine a light on the tireless efforts of those dedicated to making a difference. "Mai believes in the power of community and hopes to inspire others to contribute to the causes they care about. The YouTube series will feature interviews with leaders and volunteers from each organization, behind-the-scenes looks at their projects, and personal stories that illustrate the impact of their work. "Viewers can expect engaging content that not only informs but also inspires action. Join Mai Whelan as she turns her victory into a platform for change, proving that with determination and a heart for service, we can all work together to create a brighter future." Speaking to PIX11 News, a clip was shared on YouTube where Mai Whelan - who is an American retired immigration adjudicator - said she was "poor" growing up and so her "passion" is to give back to those in need. Squid Game: The Challenge Season 2 is available to stream on Netflix now

Technology

Squid Game The Challenge episode release date and intense exciting new games

Squid Game enthusiasts have just 48 hours remaining before a fresh instalment of the high-stakes reality competition makes its comeback. A further 456 participants will face a succession of punishing challenges, competing for an eye-watering $4.56 million prize pot in the second series of Squid Game: The Challenge . The Netflix reality phenomenon, inspired by the acclaimed Korean drama Squid Game , proved enormously popular upon its 2023 debut. A follow-up series was confirmed earlier this year, with its arrival now imminent. Across a three-week period, competitors will battle through numerous demanding challenges, featuring both returning favourites and fresh tests, until a sole winner emerges. Whilst the original series saw eliminated players face fatal consequences, this version carries different stakes - contestants will forfeit their chance at the transformative sum of money. Although the complete line-up remains confidential, Netflix has already revealed several prominent personalities, including recognisable stars from Selling Sunset and Big Brother, reports the Mirror . Squid Game: The Challenge series two launches on November 4. Nevertheless, the entire run won't drop simultaneously. Rather, viewers must wait seven days between different episodes throughout the three-week duration. The first four episodes will be released. November 11 will then see the next three episodes aired. But fans will have to wait until November 18 for the remaining episodes in the huge season finale. Regarding subtle references to different challenges, executive producer Nicola Brown revealed to Tudum: "Those little Easter eggs are important for both the viewers at home and the players. "The first thing they do when they walk into the dorm is look at the walls and try to figure out what the new games might be." Here are some games fans can look forward to: With the second series arriving imminently, Netflix has already confirmed another run of the popular reality programme. Those interested in participating can submit applications online for an opportunity to compete. According to Tudum, there's an alternative route onto the show. Tudum reveals: "Player recruitment for Season 3 is also now taking place through Squid Game: The Experience in both New York and London. "Winners at the immersive, IRL experience will receive priority in the casting process, though this does not guarantee they will be selected to take part in Season 3." Squid Game: The Challenge season 2 premieres Tuesday, November 4 on Netflix.

Technology

BBC Celebrity Traitors star Cat Burns opens up on heartbreaking loss behind new album

Celebrity Traitors' star Cat Burns has candidly shared her experience of a heart-wrenching loss, confessing she was "in the storm". On the gripping BBC One programme, only comedian Alan Carr and songstress Cat Burns are left standing as traitors, with the tension mounting as the finale approaches. The past week saw the celebs say goodbye to their first traitor in the much-loved series, with Jonathan Ross being singled out. In his memorable parting words, he declared: "I am now, and I have been all through the game completely faithful... to the Traitors." The Celebrity Traitors grand finale is slated for Thursday, November 6 on BBC One at 9pm. Cat Burns, aged 25, has earned plaudits for her savvy gameplay, quickly becoming a fan favourite in the series. She joined a squad of 19 celebrities, all vying to pocket up to £100,000 for their chosen charity. Away from the show, the singer's popularity has skyrocketed since her breakout moment in 2022 when her tune 'Go' took TikTok by storm - it even bagged a nomination for Song of the Year at the BRITS in 2023, reports Wales Online . Now, the rising star is set to grace the strictly -come-dancing> Strictly Come Dancing stage this weekend, performing for the show's Halloween special. She's been open about her journey through grief, dedicating her latest album to a heartbreaking period in her life. Her second album, "How to be Human", hit the shelves on October 31. In an emotional Instagram post, Cat revealed: "I went through a real ego death last year after losing my grandad and going through a breakup at the same time. "While I was in the storm I knew I wanted to document my experience in song form, to show the reality of how hard it was, but also so I could see if would ever get out of it, because if I'm being honest I really didn't think I was gonna get through that time of my life. "It's honest, it's uncomfortable, and it's really scary for me to release, but that is true art to me. if it doesn't cost you anything then what's the point?". Fans were quick to rally around her, with one saying: "Yes, yes and YES! Your first album helped me so much when I was going through a rough patch so I'm really excited about this one!". Another penned: "your honesty about grief and breakup hits deep thank you for making the storm into songs." Back in 2024, Burns shared the heartbreaking news of her grandad's passing, describing him as a "fighter". In a touching tribute, she vowed: "I promise to keep your legacy alive. I promise to let people know your name, our name, as far and as wide as I can." In addition to her second album, the singer has also announced a UK tour, with tickets flying off the shelves. The Celebrity Traitors final airs November 6 on BBC One.