Euphoria Season 3 First Look Zendaya And Drama Recap

Since the final episode aired in February 2022, a lot has happened behind the scenes of Euphoria, so much so that many believed the show would not return for a third season.

For starters, following the completion of Season 2, the Daily Beast published an article alleging that series creator Sam Levinson had fostered a “toxic” environment behind the scenes. Sources allegedly revealed to the outlet that the shoot for Season 2 was “hellish.”

Season 2 was also criticized for confusing plot lines and excessive onscreen nudity, with Levinson being called out for both as the show’s sole writer.

Meanwhile, the show has lost some of its stars from the early seasons. For starters, Barbie Ferreira announced her departure from the series shortly after Season 2 ended. On an episode of Armchair Expert, Ferreira criticized the show’s treatment of her character, saying, “I think both parties knew that I really wanted to be able to not be the fat best friend.”

And recently, on the red carpet at the Governors Awards, Storm Reid revealed that she will not be returning as Gia for Season 3. “Euphoria’s a really special thing and I’m so glad that that’s a part of my legacy and that I was a part of such a cultural phenomenon,” Reid added per Variety.

Nika King, who stars as Rue’s mom, also revealed that delays have been tough on her, so much so that she said she hadn’t paid rent in six months. In a TikTok, she said, “People are like, ‘We need Season 3.’ I’m like, ‘Bitch, I need Season 3. I haven’t paid my rent in six months.'”

On top of the alleged behind-the-scenes drama, Angus Cloud, who starred as the beloved Fez, tragically died of an accidental overdose at the age of 25 in July 2023.

Over a year after his sudden death, Hunter Schafer, who stars as Jules, opened up about the “tough” prospect of returning for a third season without Cloud and Euphoria producer Kevin Turen, who died in November 2023 from multiple heart issues.

At the same time as Schafer’s comments, the Hollywood Reporter released an article about the “tragedy and trauma” inside Euphoria. The article detailed a reported fallout and feud between Levinson and Zendaya, which played a part in the Season 3 delay.

Then, in July 2024, HBO confirmed again that Euphoria would really be returning for Season 3 with the “entire main cast,” which likely includes Zendaya, Schafer, Sweeney, Jacob Elordi, Maude Apatow, and Alexa Demie.

And that brings us to today, with HBO confirming that production has FINALLY started on Euphoria Season 3.

HBO and A24, who produces the series, shared a single image of Zendaya as Rue in the upcoming season:

While not much is known about the potential plot for Season 3, Variety previously reported that Levinson had the idea for a five-year time jump and a potential storyline for Rue that included her working as a private investigator. HBO reportedly paused development for Season 3 until they could figure out how to be “creatively in line with the previous two seasons.”

So, there you have it. Euphoria is officially returning for a Season 3 with Zendaya. It’s unclear yet which other cast members are definitely returning, too.

All I know is Euphoria is one of the buzziest shows in recent years, so whatever this season is about, the internet will lose its collective mind.

What are your thoughts on Euphoria getting a third season? Tell us everything in the comments below!