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 dr

See Full Page