50 Facts About Euphoria (TV Series)

Euphoria: A Deep Dive into the Series

Euphoria has taken the television world by storm with its raw portrayal of teenage life. Created by Sam Levinson, the show is a unique blend of intense drama, complex characters, and striking visuals. Here are 50 fascinating facts about Euphoria that will give you a deeper understanding of this groundbreaking series.

The Vision Behind Euphoria

The creation of Euphoria is a story in itself, with Sam Levinson at the helm, drawing from personal experiences and a rich Hollywood lineage.

1. Sam Levinson, the creator of Euphoria, is the son of Barry Levinson, a renowned film director known for movies like "Diner" and "Rain Man." This Hollywood lineage has undoubtedly influenced Sam's approach to storytelling.
2. From the very beginning, Sam Levinson knew he wanted Zendaya and Maude Apatow for the series. Zendaya, who plays Rue Bennett, was the only choice for the role, according to Levinson. Maude Apatow, who plays Lexi Howard, was written into the show specifically with her in mind due to their previous collaboration on the film "Assassination Nation."
3. The series draws heavily from Sam Levinson's own experiences with substance abuse, addiction, and rehab. He has stated that he wrote himself as a teenager, using those feelings and memories to bring the character of Rue to life.
4. Euphoria is an adaptation of the Israeli miniseries of the same name. While it borrows some aspects from the original, it has evolved into a unique and contemporary exploration of teenage life, tackling themes such as sex, drugs, and relationships.

The Ensemble Cast

Euphoria's cast is a tapestry of talent, each bringing their own unique flair to the show.

5. The show boasts an ensemble cast including Zendaya, Maude Apatow, Angus Cloud, Eric Dane, Alexa Demie, Jacob Elordi, Barbie Ferreira, Nika King, Storm Reid, Hunter Schafer, Algee Smith, Sydney Sweeney, Colman Domingo, Javon "Wanna" Walton, Austin Abrams, and Dominic Fike.
6. Angus Cloud, who plays Fez, was discovered on a Manhattan street by the show’s casting director. He wasn’t an actor before Euphoria and wasn’t even considering becoming one.
7. Hunter Schafer, who plays Jules Vaughn, was a complete newbie to acting before the show. She was a model in NYC and found out about the audition through social media.
8. Jacob Elordi, who plays Nate Jacobs, was practically homeless in LA before being cast in Euphoria. He had to forget his lines during the audition.
9. Maude Apatow fills out a journal for every character she plays, including Cassie Howard, to get into character. Her journal for Cassie is described as "dramatic artsy" and filled with moody song lyrics and black and white photos.
10. Sophia Rose Wilson, who plays BB a.k.a. Vape Girl, was scouted in a shopping center. She was approached by casting producers and less than four weeks later, she was flown out to LA for auditions and offered the role.

Behind the Scenes

The making of Euphoria is filled with interesting anecdotes and challenges that add to its allure.

11. One of the most emotional scenes in season 1 was improvised by Zendaya. The intense fight scene where Rue holds a piece of glass up to her mother was so emotionally difficult for Zendaya that she felt physically sick. The entire scene was made up on the spot, adding to its raw and authentic feel.
12. The New Year’s Eve party scene took an entire week of all-nighters to shoot. The cast and crew would start filming at 6 PM and go until the sun rose, often working until 5 AM. This grueling schedule left everyone exhausted but also added to the show’s high-energy atmosphere.
13. Alexa Demie, who plays Maddy Perez, had a spiritual experience when she landed the role. She saw Jacob Elordi walking down the street and instantly knew he would be Nate. She also had a dream about being friends with Zendaya before ever meeting her.
14. The carnival scene was a nightmare to shoot, taking six days to complete. The dusty and cold environment required Zendaya to use an inhaler, and the packed rides and camera equipment made the set chaotic.
15. Jacob Elordi got a concussion during the fight scene with Eric Dane in season 1. The scene was filmed to be as real as possible, resulting in Jacob getting injured. He ended up throwing up after work and was bleeding during filming.

Themes and Subject Matter

Euphoria doesn't shy away from heavy topics, making it a powerful and thought-provoking series.

16. The series explores a wide range of themes including child abuse, drug abuse, toxic relationships, hookup culture, revenge porn, blackmail, codependency, abortion, infidelity, relapsing, gender transition, repressed homosexuality, sobriety, human trafficking, domestic violence, rape, self-harm, toxic masculinity, drug dealing, dating violence, mental illness, mental health, anger issues, temper tantrums, hallucinations, theft, attempted murder, alcoholism, and grief.
17. Rue Bennett, played by Zendaya, is a troubled teenage drug addict who struggles to get sober and find her place in the world after rehab. Her character's backstory includes struggling with mental disorders and her father's death from cancer, which led to her addiction.
18. Jules Vaughn, played by Hunter Schafer, is a new trans girl in town who is transitioning to deal with her gender dysphoria. Her character’s journey is deeply personal and emotional, adding to the show’s authenticity.
19. Nate Jacobs, played by Jacob Elordi, is a complex character who struggles with his own demons. His character adds a layer of complexity and tension to the series.
20. Fez, played by Angus Cloud, was almost killed off in both season 1 and season 2. The original script for season 1 had Fez dying, but it was later changed to Ashtray. The script for season 2 was rewritten the day before filming the police raid scene, again sparing Fez’s life.

Euphoria's Impact and Reception

The show's influence extends beyond its gripping narrative, making waves in pop culture and garnering critical acclaim.

21. Leonardo DiCaprio gave season 1 his stamp of approval, calling the show "amazing." This endorsement was celebrated by the cast, with Barbie Ferreira even making T-shirts with his quote.
22. The first episode of season 2 of Euphoria broke a record with 2.4 million viewers tuning in. This figure is a testament to the show’s growing popularity and its ability to attract a large and dedicated audience.
23. Euphoria has been confirmed for season 3 by HBO. This announcement has excited fans and solidified the show’s place as a staple in modern television.
24. Euphoria has received praise for its cinematography and score. The show’s use of vibrant colors and dynamic camera angles creates a visually stunning experience. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic tracks, adds to the show’s emotional depth.
25. The performances of the cast have been widely praised. Zendaya’s portrayal of Rue Bennett has been particularly lauded, with her becoming the youngest woman to win an Emmy for Best Actress in a Drama Series.

Controversies and Comparisons

Euphoria has not been without its share of controversies, often sparking debates about its content.

26. Euphoria has been a subject of controversy due to its nudity and sexual content. Critics have argued that the show’s depiction of mature themes is excessive, especially given the high school setting and teenage characters. However, the show’s creators argue that these themes are necessary to reflect the realities of adolescence.
27. Euphoria has been compared to other beloved teen dramas like "My So-Called Life," "Skins," and "Degrassi." These comparisons highlight the show’s ability to tackle complex themes in a way that resonates with audiences.
28. Sam Levinson had a vision board featuring Zendaya as Rue Bennett. He revealed this to her during the audition process, which she found both surprising and motivating.
29. Fez, played by Angus Cloud, has become one of the most beloved characters on Euphoria. Despite not being an actor before the show, Cloud’s portrayal of Fez has resonated deeply with audiences.
30. Hunter Schafer’s performance as Jules Vaughn has been praised for its raw emotion and authenticity. Her character’s journey is deeply personal and emotional, adding to the show’s authenticity.

Euphoria's Cultural Footprint

The series has left an indelible mark on pop culture, influencing various aspects of contemporary media.

31. Euphoria has captured something nostalgic about the experience of being a teenager that has touched people of all ages. The show features an incredible wardrobe, pithy writing, and relatable subject matter, making it a standout in contemporary television.
32. Euphoria has had a significant impact on pop culture, with its themes and characters becoming part of the zeitgeist. The show’s influence can be seen in various aspects of contemporary media, from music to fashion.
33. Euphoria’s legacy is already being cemented as one of the most impactful and influential shows in recent television history. With its confirmed third season and continued critical acclaim, it is clear that Euphoria will remain a staple in modern television for years to come.
34. The show’s use of vibrant colors and dynamic camera angles creates a visually stunning experience. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic tracks, adds to the show’s emotional depth.
35. The performances of the cast have been widely praised. Zendaya’s portrayal of Rue Bennett has been particularly lauded, with her becoming the youngest woman to win an Emmy for Best Actress in a Drama Series.

Personal Journeys and Character Development

The characters in Euphoria are richly developed, each with their own unique backstories and arcs.

36. Rue Bennett, played by Zendaya, is a troubled teenage drug addict who struggles to get sober and find her place in the world after rehab. Her character's backstory includes struggling with mental disorders and her father's death from cancer, which led to her addiction.
37. Jules Vaughn, played by Hunter Schafer, is a new trans girl in town who is transitioning to deal with her gender dysphoria. Her character’s journey is deeply personal and emotional, adding to the show’s authenticity.
38. Nate Jacobs, played by Jacob Elordi, is a complex character who struggles with his own demons. His character adds a layer of complexity and tension to the series.
39. Fez, played by Angus Cloud, was almost killed off in both season 1 and season 2. The original script for season 1 had Fez dying, but it was later changed to Ashtray. The script for season 2 was rewritten the day before filming the police raid scene, again sparing Fez’s life.
40. Maude Apatow’s character Lexi Howard is deeply emotional and vulnerable. She fills out a journal for every character she plays, including Cassie Howard, to get into character. Her journal for Cassie is described as "dramatic artsy" and filled with moody song lyrics and black and white photos.

Euphoria's Unique Production Elements

The production of Euphoria involves unique elements that contribute to its distinct style and storytelling.

41. The carnival scene was a nightmare to shoot, taking six days to complete. The dusty and cold environment required Zendaya to use an inhaler, and the packed rides and camera equipment made the set chaotic.
42. The New Year’s Eve party scene took an entire week of all-nighters to shoot. The cast and crew would start filming at 6 PM and go until the sun rose, often working until 5 AM. This grueling schedule left everyone exhausted but also added to the show’s high-energy atmosphere.
43. Alexa Demie had a dream about being friends with Zendaya before ever meeting her. This dream was a manifestation of her hopes and aspirations, which eventually came true when she landed the role of Maddy Perez.
44. Sydney Sweeney fills out a journal for every character she plays from the day she’s born until the first page of the script. Her journal for Cassie is described as “dramatic artsy” and filled with moody song lyrics and black and white photos.
45. Leonardo DiCaprio gave season 1 his stamp of approval, calling the show “amazing.” This endorsement was celebrated by the cast, with Barbie Ferreira even making T-shirts with his quote.

Euphoria's Future and Legacy

As Euphoria continues to captivate audiences, its future looks bright with more seasons and continued acclaim.

46. Euphoria has been confirmed for season 3 by HBO. This announcement has excited fans and solidified the show’s place as a staple in modern television.
47. The first episode of season 2 of Euphoria broke a record with 2.4 million viewers tuning in. This figure is a testament to the show’s growing popularity and its ability to attract a large and dedicated audience.
48. Euphoria has received praise for its cinematography and score. The show’s use of vibrant colors and dynamic camera angles creates a visually stunning experience. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic tracks, adds to the show’s emotional depth.
49. The performances of the cast have been widely praised. Zendaya’s portrayal of Rue Bennett has been particularly lauded, with her becoming the youngest woman to win an Emmy for Best Actress in a Drama Series.
50. Euphoria’s legacy is already being cemented as one of the most impactful and influential shows in recent television history. With its confirmed third season and continued critical acclaim, it is clear that Euphoria will remain a staple in modern television for years to come.

Euphoria's Lasting Impact

Euphoria isn't just another teen drama; it's a raw, unfiltered look at the complexities of adolescence. With Sam Levinson drawing from his own experiences, the show dives deep into themes like substance abuse, mental health, and identity struggles. Zendaya's powerful portrayal of Rue Bennett and the ensemble cast's stellar performances have set a new standard for TV dramas. The show's unique cinematography, gripping storylines, and emotional depth have resonated with audiences worldwide. As it gears up for its third season, Euphoria continues to push boundaries and spark conversations. Its influence on pop culture, from fashion to music, is undeniable. Euphoria's legacy is already cemented as a groundbreaking series that will be remembered for years to come.