Creator Sam Levinson reflects on loss and hints at the series' potential finale
Category: Arts & Culture
As anticipation builds for the premiere of Euphoria Season 3, creator Sam Levinson has opened up about the emotional challenges faced during production, particularly the loss of actor Angus Cloud to an overdose in July 2023. Speaking at the Hollywood premiere on April 12, 2026, Levinson expressed his deep affection for Cloud, stating, "Losing Angus was really hard for us as a production. I loved him very deeply." This sentiment resonates throughout the new season, which Levinson has crafted as a tribute to Cloud's character, Fez, aiming to keep him alive through the storytelling.
Levinson has taken the opportunity in Season 3 to explore themes of faith and surrender, saying, "I wanted to deal with that. I wanted to deal with questions about faith, about a power greater than ourselves. What it means to surrender your life and your will to God as you understand him." This exploration is particularly poignant in light of the personal losses the production has faced.
Another notable loss was that of Eric Dane, who was diagnosed with ALS in February 2026. Levinson recalled a touching moment when he reassured Dane, saying there was "no pressure" for him to return to the set. Yet, Dane insisted on participating, demonstrating his commitment to the show. Levinson noted, "When he showed up, I noticed that his speech was a little slurred. He was a bit self-conscious, and I said, 'This works perfectly. We’re gonna put five beer bottles in front of you, and you’re about to say all of the shit you would never say if you were sober.' And we just had a blast shooting." Levinson praised Dane's professionalism, stating, "He’s a consummate professional all the way through, and I miss him."
As the series gears up for its third season, there is speculation about its future. Zendaya, one of the show's stars, hinted during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show that Season 3 could be the last, saying, "I think so, yeah," and adding, "That closure is coming." Levinson confirmed there are currently "no plans" for a Season 4, stating, "I write every season like it’s the last season." He emphasized his focus on delivering a strong final season, saying, "I want to finish this as strong as I can. I’m cutting [Episodes] 7 and 8 still. I’m putting some finishing touches. I just want to deliver a fucking slam dunk season."
Season 3 of Euphoria will see a time jump of five years, with characters such as Cassie (played by Sydney Sweeney) and Nate (Jacob Elordi) now married and living in suburbia. Rue, portrayed by Zendaya, is depicted working off her debts to drug dealer Laurie (Martha Kelly), Jules (Hunter Schafer) is in art school, and Maddy (Alexa Demie) has taken a job at a talent agency in Hollywood. Levinson has indicated that the new episodes will honor Cloud's legacy and the impact he had on the show.
The premiere of Season 3 comes after a four-year hiatus since the second season, which was celebrated for its raw portrayal of teenage life and struggles. The core cast will return, including Zendaya, Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, Hunter Schafer, Alexa Demie, Maude Apatow, Colman Domingo, and Eric Dane, marking one of his last appearances before his passing.
As fans prepare for the show's return, the emotional weight of the upcoming episodes is sure to resonate deeply. Levinson's commitment to honoring the memory of both Cloud and Dane adds a layer of poignancy to the series, which has always been known for its exploration of complex themes and characters.
In a world where the pressures of fame, addiction, and personal struggles are ever-present, Euphoria continues to push boundaries and spark conversations. With its premiere set for April 12, 2026, viewers can expect a season filled with both heart and hard-hitting truths. As Levinson puts it, "I want to finish this as strong as I can," and with the legacy of Angus Cloud and Eric Dane in mind, the stakes have never felt higher.