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During episode 5, dubbed “Trick or Treat,” the unexpected turn of events led to a significant uproar within the Squid Game: The Challenge community, stemming from Player No. 229, Phalisia’s actions. Phalisia unceremoniously halted the participation of Player No. 232, Rick, and Player No. 243, Stephen, which triggered a wave of backlash directed at her.
Rick and Stephen had formed a strong bond early in the reality show, their camaraderie being a beacon of light in a competition fraught with tension and emotional eliminations. Their dynamic resembled that of a father-son relationship, providing a refreshing contrast amidst the high-stakes game.
Phalisia, observing the emergence of the “Gganbu Gang,” an all-male alliance spearheaded by Rick and Stephen, expressed her intent to dismantle the group. She voiced her perspective in a confessional during episode 4, highlighting her discomfort with male-dominated alliances due to her experiences as a woman married to a strong woman. She found the formation of such alliances in the game unacceptable, fueling her determination to disrupt their unity.
In a dormitory elimination test, Phalisia volunteered among five players. Each participant took their turn with a jack-in-the-box, revealing outcomes that ranged from instant elimination to the ability to eliminate others or gain an advantage in the subsequent challenge. Despite her emotional state, Phalisia, after avoiding elimination herself, made the heart-wrenching decision to end the games for three players. Initially targeting a contestant who had gained an advantage, she then turned her sights on the beloved duo, Stephen and Rick, leaving both stunned by their abrupt exit.
This move resulted in Phalisia facing a barrage of criticism and hate from viewers. However, fellow contestants, including Stephen, stood up in her defense, emphasizing that it was ultimately a strategic move within the game. They urged the community to acknowledge that Phalisia acted in her best interest to secure her chance at winning the substantial prize money.
Other contestants echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the stressful nature of the situation and the complexities of making strategic decisions within the game’s framework. They called for an end to the hateful backlash and supported Phalisia’s actions as part of the game dynamics.
Despite the uproar, Phalisia maintained an active presence on social media, attempting to deflect the negativity. She even suggested the possibility of a discussion between herself, Stephen, and Rick on a social platform to resolve the issue, expressing hope for acceptance from both men regarding her choices.
In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Rick conveyed his difficulty in coming to terms with his unexpected elimination but acknowledged Phalisia’s right to make that decision.
As the show progresses, Phalisia remains in contention for the lucrative grand prize. Episodes 6 through 9 are set to air on Netflix on November 29, with the finale scheduled for a week later.