HBO might rue the day it postponed “Euphoria” — and series star Zendaya says even she’s not sure if the series will ever return for a third season, according to Variety.
HBO announced March 25 that Season 3 of “Euphoria” was being postponed — but that the network and series creator Sam Levinson “remain committed to making an exceptional third season.”
“In the interim, we are allowing our in-demand cast to pursue other opportunities,” an HBO spokesperson told Variety at the time.
Zendaya, who plays Rue on the HBO series, told Variety Tuesday night — at the Los Angeles premiere of her film “Challengers” — that she wants the show to return but is unaware when or if Season 3 will begin production.
“If it’s right for the characters and everything turns out the way it should, of course,” she said, adding that she’s “not in charge” of whether the show will return, even though she’s an executive producer of the series.
“But it’s beyond me,” she said.
Production on Season 3 had already been delayed due to the double-whammy WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in Hollywood and the death last July of co-star Angus Cloud, who played drug dealer Fezco.
Cloud was 25 and his death was ruled an accidental overdose due to a combination of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, benzodiazepine and other drugs.
HBO announced last November that “Euphoria” would return in 2025 — but that was before the March postponement.
Days after HBO announced the season’s delay, co-star Storm Reid, who plays Rue’s younger sister, Gia, spoke publicly about the news in an interview with Variety at the opening of USC School of Dramatic Arts’ Drama Center.
“I would hope the viewers, the audience will be able to finish the show,” she said. “I think we should handle the show with care. We’ve put our hearts and soul into it.”
Then, that same day, Variety reported that the delay in Season 3 of “Euphoria” was due to ye olde “creative differences.”
According to the report, series creator Levinson wanted Season 3 to open with a five-year time jump in which Rue becomes a private detective — while Zendaya thought that Rue, who’s now sober, should become a pregnancy surrogate.
Co-star Hunter Schafer, who plays Jules Vaughn, expressed optimism that the series will eventually return.
“I just really miss everybody. Everyone is doing very well in their careers right now,” Schafer told Variety. “Everyone’s kind of blown up, and so with that comes people traveling a lot.
“Whatever happens, I’m just excited to get back together once it’s time and catch up and hang out.”
Levinson is reportedly working on new scripts, according to the report.
“Euphoria” also stars Sydney Sweeney and Jacob Elordi, who have been — alongside Zendaya — in high demand since the show’s success.
