The penultimate episode reveals Ali's dark past and sets the stage for a shocking finale
Category: Arts & Culture
In a gripping penultimate episode of *Euphoria*’s third season, titled "Rain or Shine," Colman Domingo's character Ali takes center stage, providing a powerful exploration of his past and the challenges faced by Rue, played by Zendaya. The episode, which aired on May 24, 2026, examines Ali's backstory, showing the darker side of his life as a recovering addict and mentor, and sets the stage for the highly anticipated season finale.
Throughout the episode, Ali grapples with the weight of his history, which includes drug use and abusive behavior. Viewers are treated to a flashback that reveals Ali's struggles, featuring scenes of him getting high and cheating on his wife, interspersed with moments of reflection as he attends 12-step meetings. This deepened characterization serves to humanize Ali, illustrating his motivations and the pain he has endured. As Rue confides in Ali about her precarious situation involving rival drug gangs and the DEA, the stakes are raised, making the emotional connection between the two characters even more poignant.
Ali's relationship with Rue, which has been a focal point since the series began, evolves in this episode. Rue shares her elaborate, life-or-death plan to escape her dangerous circumstances, and Ali listens nervously, torn between wanting to protect her and the reality of her choices. "You wanna undo the evil you've done?" he asks Rue, highlighting the gravity of her situation and his desire to help her navigate her addiction. This moment captures the series’ themes of addiction, redemption, and the complexity of personal relationships.
The character development of Ali has been a slow burn throughout *Euphoria*, with creator Sam Levinson choosing to reveal his backstory gradually. Domingo noted that this season provided a unique opportunity to explore Ali's character in depth, stating, "We get to see a little bit of some of the darkness that Ali says he can’t drop, but we never saw it, so now we get another layer — instead of just espousing [advice] like Buddha at a diner, you get more contextual humanization." This layered approach has made Ali's character more relatable and complex.
The episode also features a dramatic turn of events with the death of Nate Jacobs, portrayed by Jacob Elordi. Nate's storyline culminates in a shocking twist, as he is buried alive by loan sharks after failing to pay off a $1 million debt. In a cruel twist of fate, he is bitten by a rattlesnake, leading to his demise. This event adds to the episode's tension and serves as a reminder of the dire consequences of the characters' choices throughout the season.
As the series progresses, the intertwining stories of the characters reveal the broader themes of addiction and survival. Rue's struggles mirror those of Ali, as both characters seek redemption and grapple with their pasts. The episode's exploration of these themes resonates deeply, especially as the characters face life-altering decisions.
The season finale, set to air on May 31, 2026, will likely be a dramatic culmination of the season’s events. With Ali's role expected to be central, viewers are left to wonder how his relationship with Rue will evolve and whether he can save her from the dangers that surround her. Domingo hinted at the intensity of the finale, stating, "It’s going to smack people in the face. You don’t see it coming, but the groundwork has been laid for seasons." This anticipation builds on the emotional stakes established in "Rain or Shine."
As the finale approaches, fans are increasingly concerned about Rue's fate. The episode ends with Rue leaving a note saying "Forgive me" before disappearing, raising questions about her future and the potential consequences of her choices. This cliffhanger adds to the suspense, making the upcoming episode one of the most anticipated in the series’ history.
As *Euphoria* continues to explore the complex lives of its characters, the themes of addiction, love, and loss remain at the forefront. The series has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of these difficult subjects, and the upcoming finale is expected to deliver an emotional and impactful resolution to the season's storylines. With the weight of past events hanging over the characters, viewers are left to ponder the ultimate question: Can redemption be found in a world filled with darkness?