Former BIGBANG member T.O.P (Choi Seung-hyun) has made a remarkable career comeback by winning Best Supporting Actor at the prestigious 22nd Gold Derby Awards in the United States for his role in Squid Game 2.
The winners were announced on August 18 (local time), with Squid Game 2 dominating several categories, including Best Drama Series Ensemble and Series of the Year. Lead actor Lee Jung-jae won Best Actor, while Kang Ae-sim and Park Gyu-young took home Best Supporting Actress awards. Gong Yoo also won Best Guest Actor.
Among the night’s highlights was T.O.P’s triumph over renowned co-star Lee Byung-hun, who was also nominated in the same category. T.O.P, who portrayed the villainous Thanoss, received acclaim for his intense and memorable performance.
In an earlier interview, T.O.P admitted he hesitated before auditioning:
“I was very worried because this character made me confront my shameful past. Honestly, I thought my image could be permanently scarred, so I struggled with the decision. But in the end, I felt it was destiny, so I submitted my audition tape and eventually met with the director.”
T.O.P previously faced legal troubles after being convicted of marijuana use in 2017, which led him to withdraw from BIGBANG and announce retirement from the entertainment industry. His casting in Squid Game 2 was met with mixed reactions, ranging from praise for his striking portrayal to criticism over his past controversies.
Despite the divided opinions, his performance as a flamboyant, drug-addicted character left a strong impression internationally, elevating him to one of the season’s standout figures.
Following his win, T.O.P has joined the Squid Game 3 cast in international promotions, charming audiences with his confident stage presence:
“You must have been surprised to see me, but there’s no way I would miss such an amazing event,” he said at a U.S. appearance.
With his powerful Gold Derby win, T.O.P has silenced critics and reclaimed his place in the global spotlight. Fans and industry insiders alike are now watching closely to see what his next move will be.
Sources: Xports News
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