Euphoria Season 3 Production Begins Amid Cast Changes

LOS ANGELES, CA — Production for the highly anticipated third season of HBO’s hit drama series Euphoria has officially commenced, promising a return of familiar characters amid significant cast changes. After several delays influenced by industry strikes and personal challenges, filming began in February 2025, setting the stage for new episodes expected in early 2026.

The delay in production was primarily due to the dual Writers Guild of America (WGA) and SAG-AFTRA strikes in 2023, which affected multiple projects across Hollywood. HBO CEO Casey Bloys expressed the complexity of resuming production when he stated in November 2023, “We’ve been through strikes before, you know, they increase the cost, but I don’t see a scenario where I just stop making tentpole shows.”

Euphoria, which premiered in June 2019 and has gained immense popularity for its raw depiction of adolescence, follows the story of Rue Bennett, played by Zendaya, as she navigates her tumultuous life while battling addiction. The series was renewed for a third season shortly after its successful second season, which aired in early 2022, but fans have faced delays with news varying on its return.

Francesca Orsi, HBO’s head of drama programming, previously indicated that the series would adapt to the changes in the cast and the story’s progression, confirming the desire to explore the characters beyond their high school years. “I think it’ll be exciting to explore the characters out of high school,” Zendaya commented, noting the anticipated time jump that could bring characters closer to adulthood.

However, not all original cast members will be returning. Storm Reid, who portrayed Rue’s sister Gia, confirmed she will not be part of season three. Additionally, Barbie Ferreira, who played Kat, also announced her departure from the show in August 2022, citing the need for personal growth. “After four years of getting to embody the most special and enigmatic character, Kat, I’m having to say a very teary-eyed goodbye,” Ferreira stated.

Tragic news also hit the Euphoria family with the death of Conor Angus Cloud, who played Fezco. As the show progresses, it remains to be seen how the series will address the loss and honor his character’s storyline, which left many fans questioning his fate after season two’s intense finale.

Euphoria’s ensemble cast will include returning members such as Zendaya, Hunter Schafer as Jules Vaughn, Sydney Sweeney as Cassie Howard, and Jacob Elordi as Nate Jacobs. While the full story arc for season three is still under wraps, viewers can expect the dark and poignant narrative style that the series is known for.

In recent interviews, Colman Domingo, who portrays Ali, shared his excitement about returning and hinted at groundbreaking developments in the new season. “I haven’t read the script, but [Sam Levinson] told me some of it, and it’s going to be groundbreaking,” Domingo revealed.

Overall, as Euphoria embarks on this new chapter, both the cast and fans eagerly anticipate how the beloved series will evolve while delving into new territories of storytelling and character development. The upcoming season is set against a backdrop of fresh beginnings and the lingering grasp of past experiences, reflecting the tumultuous yet relatable journey of young adulthood.