# Netflix Cancels US Adaptation of 'Squid Game' David Fincher's anticipated project has been shelved. - **Source:** [Gizmodo](https://brifing.si/source/63382431-cef0-4c41-883e-2f88dc21351e) - **Published:** 2026-08-08 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c78d7c73-bcdd-4c84-bafe-1d0a27fd8e90 ## Netflix's Plans to Expand 'Squid Game' Netflix wanted to expand the hugely successful 'Squid Game' from last year. Plans included a few game shows and a US-focused spin-off. David Fincher was expected to direct the project, and Cate Blanchett's appearance in the original series finale hinted at these plans coming to fruition. ## Cancellation of the US Adaptation According to a recent report by The Playlist, the US adaptation codenamed 'Heckler' has been canceled. The project was to be filmed in the UK, with 'Utopia' creator David Kelly writing the script. However, Netflix has shifted its strategy to focus on regional content rather than a US-centric project. ## Netflix's New Strategy Netflix now plans to adapt 'Squid Game' spin-offs for different regions rather than just the US. This approach is already used in successful formats like 'Love is Blind.' As a result, the US adaptation is no longer on the table, and Fincher's project has been shelved. ## Fan Reactions The cancellation of the US adaptation has disappointed fans of David Fincher and Cate Blanchett. However, those who wanted to preserve the themes of 'Squid Game' creator Hwang Dong-hyuk welcomed the news. Netflix will continue to expand the series with different formats in the coming years. ## Netflix's Other Projects Netflix is focusing on many projects beyond 'Squid Game.' For example, 'The Adventures of Cliff Booth' will debut in December. The platform is also sharing updates on the future of popular franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and Doctor Who. ## The Importance of Regional Content Netflix's focus on regional content is part of its strategy to appeal to a global audience. This approach brings stories from different cultures to the platform, increasing content diversity. The success of 'Squid Game' demonstrates how effective this strategy can be. ## Future Plans Netflix aims to sustain the success of 'Squid Game' through different formats. Game shows and regional spin-offs will be used to boost the series' popularity. The cancellation of projects like the US adaptation reflects changes in the platform's content strategy. ## Conclusion and Implications Netflix's cancellation of the 'Squid Game' US adaptation highlights a significant shift in its content strategy. Regional-focused content is seen as a more effective way to appeal to a global audience. This decision will impact both fans and content creators. ## Sources covering this story - https://gizmodo.com/it-may-be-game-over-for-the-american-squid-game-2000796218 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._