Euphoria’s third season launches tonight after a nearly four-year hiatus, bringing closure to key storylines involving Rue Bennett, Nate Jacobs, Cassie Howard, and other characters. Created by Sam Levinson, the HBO series debuted in 2019, followed by season two in 2022. This installment, potentially the final one, arrives amid profound losses, including producer Kevin Turen and actor Angus Cloud in 2023, and Eric Dane in February.

Tribute to the Departed

Eric Dane passed away on February 19 at age 53, less than a year after revealing his ALS diagnosis. Kevin Turen died at 44 from acute cardiac dysfunction linked to coronary artery disease. Angus Cloud succumbed to an accidental overdose at 25 in July 2023, with fentanyl among the substances involved.

At the season premiere event on April 7 at the TCL Chinese Theatre, Sam Levinson addressed the crowd about the delays between seasons. He cited industry strikes and scheduling conflicts with the busy cast but emphasized the deeper reason: crafting a respectful tribute to those lost.

Levinson reflected on his efforts to support Angus Cloud’s sobriety journey, stating, “You can’t be arrogant about existence. You’re forced to reckon with the fact that life itself is a wonder, a gift, a profound blessing.” He confirmed the season’s dedication to Angus, Kevin, and Eric.

Eric Dane’s Final Scenes as Cal Jacobs

Dane completed his scenes as Cal Jacobs, Nate’s father played by Jacob Elordi, before his passing. He informed Levinson of his ALS diagnosis early. Levinson recalled noticing Dane’s slightly slurred speech on set and adapting it creatively: “This works perfectly. We’re gonna put five beer bottles in front of you, and you’re about to say all of the [expletive] you would never say if you were sober.” The shoot was joyful despite the circumstances.

Levinson praised Dane’s professionalism during a large cast gathering, noting, “We had 28 cast members on Saturday for the wedding. There’s all these people around, and he just showed up with such grace and dignity. He’s a consummate professional all the way through, and I miss him.”

Viewing Details for Season 3

Euphoria season three premieres tonight, April 12, at 9 p.m. EST on HBO, with streaming available on Max. New episodes drop weekly, totaling eight, and wrapping up on May 31.