‘Euphoria’ has ended after three seasons. Why Sam Levinson wanted to honor Angus Cloud with the finale

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This story contains some spoilers for the series finale of “Euphoria.”

“Euphoria” is officially over.

The third season of the drama starring Zendaya, which ended on Sunday, will also be the show’s last. Creator Sam Levinson revealed this on the New York Times’ pop culture podcast, ‘Popcast,’ and HBO has confirmed the news.

Levinson explained to the publication that, given the story they aimed to tell – one about addiction and its effects – this feels like a natural conclusion. He expressed immense pride in their work and the story they crafted, acknowledging its tragic nature but emphasizing its honesty.

The finale included a number of shocking deaths, including Rue’s of an accidental overdose.

Levinson warned that experimenting with or using drugs today could be fatal. He also explained it was meant as a tribute to Angus Cloud and a hope for a better future.

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Get ready for a Zendaya takeover! Starting this month with the release of ‘The Drama,’ I’m breaking down everything she has coming up. We’re talking about the highly anticipated return of ‘Euphoria,’ plus the next chapter in the epic saga, ‘Dune: Part Three.’ It’s a busy time for this incredible actress, and I’m here to give you the lowdown on all things Zendaya.

Angus Cloud, who played the beloved character Fezco O’Neill in the first two seasons of the show, tragically passed away in 2023 at the age of 25 due to an accidental drug overdose. His character, Fez, was a close friend to Rue on the show.

In a behind-the-scenes video after Episode 8, Levinson explained that his main goal was to share a truthful story about addiction, and also to explore the pain and emotional struggles that come with grief.

As a critic, I have to say “Euphoria” really launched the careers of a lot of young actors. Everyone knows Zendaya, who’s rightfully won two Emmys for her incredibly powerful portrayal of Rue, but the show also gave significant platforms to talents like Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi, and Sydney Sweeney – all names you’re going to be hearing a lot more of, I predict.

The HBO video featured footage of Zendaya finishing up filming, and showed her thanking the cast and crew for their work on the show.

Zendaya shared that it’s been wonderful to have so many people support her throughout her career, saying, ‘It’s been such a pleasure and an honor to grow up with all of you watching.’

The season finale featured a remembrance of Cloud and his character, explaining his earlier absence as being due to his character Fez being in jail. Creator Sam Levinson shared with “Popcast” that Cloud’s death significantly altered Rue’s storyline, forcing it to confront the harsh realities and direct results of addiction.

Levinson explained in an HBO behind-the-scenes video that he created the story both for Angus, the subject of the series, and for anyone who has struggled with addiction and not been given another opportunity. He emphasized that relapse happens, people make mistakes, and sometimes aren’t ready to change. He also pointed out that the current opioid crisis, fueled by fentanyl, makes the situation far more dangerous, stating that if he were facing the same challenges today, he might not survive. He stressed the importance of being honest about the grim reality of addiction.

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2026-06-02 00:01