Pana native competes on Netflix’s “Squid Game: The Challenge” Season 2

PANA, Ill. (WAND) — A 23-year-old from Pana is representing central Illinois on one of Netflix’s biggest competition shows.

Steven Gordon is among hundreds of contestants from around the world competing on “Squid Game: The Challenge” Season 2. All are vying for a record-breaking $4.56 million prize.

Born in Taylorville and raised in Pana, Steven said he’s proud to bring his small-town roots to a global stage.

“I was born in Taylorville, but lived in Pana my entire life,” he told WAND News. “The small town of 5,000 people has been my life. I’ve seen so many people leave, but I love the small-town charm.”

From fan to contestant. Steven says he’s long been drawn to competitive reality shows.

“I’ve always loved the concept of a big group starting off, and as time progresses, they start dropping like flies,” he said. “When Squid Game came out, I fell in love with it instantly."

When Netflix announced a real-life version of the viral series, Steven knew he couldn’t miss his shot.

“I saw they were casting for the original season and didn’t apply,” he said. “When I watched the challenge, I thought, ‘Oh man, I fumbled. I should have applied.’ So this time, I went all in.”

Once accepted, Steven said secrecy was one of the hardest parts.

“I told my mom and very close family, but that was it. I had to turn my Snapchat location off and even had someone send pictures from my account so no one would know I was gone,” he laughed. “I was locked in 100%. It was a vault, and I wasn’t letting that secret go.”

When he returned home and posted about the gig, his community rallied around him.

"It’s been cool seeing everyone so supportive, even old teachers and friends I hadn’t talked to in years.”

Steven said he prepared intensely before filming. He practiced the challenges and really immersed himself in all things Squid Game.

With the new season now streaming, Steven said he’s excited to see how his journey plays out.

“I’m ready to see my gorgeous face on that screen,” he laughed. “I can’t wait to see all the conversations I missed — who was talking trash about me or plotting against me. That’s going to be the most fun.”

Fans can follow Steven on Instagram or Youtube. “Squid Game: The Challenge” Season 2 is now streaming on Netflix.

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