Perla Figuereo walked away as the Squid Game The Challenge season 2 winner after a grueling competition that tested her mind and heart. The Bronx native felt a wave of disbelief when the final envelope opened. She told TheWrap that the news still feels like an explosion of emotions.
Before joining the challenge, Perla worked as a model. She described her job as low paying and unfulfilling. She wanted to wear her own makeup and clothes, not just follow a schedule. When a casting director offered her a spot on the reality series, she jumped at the chance.
A Sibling Pair in the Game
Perla entered the competition with her brother Jeffrey. Both grew up watching the original Squid Game series and dreamed of playing the real version. They asked the producers to let them compete as a hidden pair. The plan worked, and they entered the dorm together, feeling both excitement and nerves.
The most talked about moment involved the Slides and Ladders game and player Steven Jones. Perla explained that she and Steven made different choices. She felt his actions were driven by vengeance rather than strategy. She told him that the extra comments and stares were too much. Even though some fans called her hypocritical, she stood by her decisions and said she does not care about the label.
Trinity Parriman’s Self Elimination
Trinity Parriman’s decision to sacrifice himself left a deep impression on Perla. She shared a personal prayer about the Holy Trinity before the coin game. She believed that his self elimination helped her reach the final round. She thanked him for the gift and dismissed the online demand for money, saying she will focus on her own path.
Perla has not yet received the prize money, but she already treated herself to a pricey Hamilton ticket on Broadway. She plans to use the winnings to secure her family’s future, buy a house for her mother, and maybe get a cosmetic procedure later this year.
Advice for Future Players
Perla’s top tip is to never feel guilty for feeling emotions. She said crying is natural and she will not apologize for it. She also advised players to be themselves, make friends with older contestants, and build social capital. According to her, authenticity helped her last longer than any hidden agenda.
Looking Ahead
When asked about a reunion show, Perla said she would love to join a final‑15 episode to discuss the wild moments that were left out. She feels grateful for the experience and is already thinking about the next chapter of her life.
Overall, Perla’s journey from a dissatisfied model to the champion of a high‑stakes reality competition shows the power of perseverance, honesty, and family support.
Source: The Wrap
