Rumors of tension between Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney have resurfaced following a new Euphoria promotional video that notably excludes one key cast member.

The HBO series’ official social media account posted a reel featuring backstage moments, season three glimpses, and a group photo call. Stars Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Maude Apatow, and Alexa Demie posed together in glamorous attire against a white backdrop, appearing close and playful for the cameras. Sweeney, however, was absent, prompting fans to speculate about ongoing conflicts.

Background on the Rumors

Speculation intensified in late 2025 over reports of a feud stemming from differing political views. Sources indicate Zendaya declined joint promotional appearances with Sweeney for Euphoria. Neither actress has addressed the claims publicly.

Earlier, Sweeney’s American Eagle campaign drew attention when former President Donald Trump praised it. He told reporters, “If Sydney Sweeney is a registered Republican, I think her ad is fantastic.” Trump also posted on Truth Social: “Sydney Sweeney, a registered Republican, has the HOTTEST ad out there. Go get ’em Sydney!”

The ad sparked backlash, with some labeling Sweeney a “MAGA Barbie.” In response, Sweeney stated, “It’s definitely not a comfortable thing to have people saying what you believe or think, especially when that doesn’t align with you. It’s been a weird thing having to navigate and digest, because it’s not me. None of it is me. And I’m having to watch it happen.” She added that she is pulling away from online negativity for her well-being.

In another interview, Sweeney emphasized, “I’ve never been here to talk about politics. I’ve always been here to make art.” She clarified, “I’m not a political person. I’m in the arts. I’m not here to speak on politics… I became an actor because I like to tell stories, but I don’t believe in hate in any form. I believe we should all love each other and have respect and understanding for one another.”

Reports suggest the co-stars, last photographed together in 2022, have limited interactions during press events.

Fan Reactions to the Promo

Captioned “Taking the smallest moments and dreaming them up into something bigger. #Euphoria,” the video drew divided comments. Some fans noted, “Notice how the girls are NOT with Sydney?” and questioned, “Why exclude Sydney from the shoot?” Others claimed, “The rumours are true,” or “the girls really said we are NOT doing a group shot with her.”

Defenders pushed back against the speculation, with one writing, “Women out here again pitting two amazing women against each other for no reason.” Another asked, “What’s with the hate towards Sydney?”

Euphoria Season 3 Preview

Set five years after the East Highland High storyline, season three follows Rue hiding in Mexico from drug dealer Laurie, Cassie building an online career while engaged to Nate, Lexi assisting showrunner Sharon Stone, and Maddy at a Hollywood talent agency.

New cast includes Rosalía, Natasha Lyonne, Danielle Deadwyler, Eli Roth, Marshawn Lynch, and Trisha Paytas. The season premieres on HBO and Max on April 12, 2026.