The finale of the teen drama, Euphoria, is now streaming on HBO. The show created headlines over the years with its characters and storyline. The sudden shift from a high school setting to an adult drama for the third season undoubtedly led to a mixed response everywhere. However, the curiosity among the audience has been alive to see what happens next.
The eighth episode of Euphoria Season 3 witnessed the unexpected death of ‘Rue’. While the deaths of characters were supposed to happen, as this is the end of the show, the fate of ‘Rue’ is something that fans never predicted. Meanwhile, writer, director, and creator of the show, Sam Levinson, has now opened up about the decision to end the character in this manner. Keep reading to know more!
Sam Levinson described ‘Rue’s’ death in Euphoria Season 3 as an “honest ending”
The final episode of Euphoria Season 3 featured ‘Rue’ dying from a fentanyl overdose. Notably, it happened from the pills given by ‘Alamo,’ who previously told her to take a break. ‘Rue’ was at Ali’s house when she took the pills and died. ‘Rue’s’ death eventually leads to an intense confrontation between ‘Ali’ and ‘Alamo’ at a club, leading to the latter’s death.
Sam Levinson appeared in a behind-the-scenes video for the finale, opening up about the death of ‘Rue.’ Sam said that he felt like this decision was an “honest ending” for the character. Sam continued by saying:
“The honest ending is that people like ‘Rue’ don’t make it. People relapse. They fuck up. They’re not ready to get clean. And they weren’t dying like they are now, with the influx of fentanyl into this country.”
Sam Levinson even recalled his experience with addiction issues in the past. Sam stated that if his situation had been the same until today, he wouldn’t have been here. Levinson mentioned that this story was dedicated to the late actor, Angus Cloud, who portrayed ‘Fez’. He further stated that it was for those individuals who never got another chance in their lives.
Sam Levinson also praised Zendaya’s performance as ‘Rue’
Sam Levinson said in the behind-the-scenes video that he intended to bring a story of addiction, which had themes of grief and emotional turmoil at the same time. Zendaya also appeared in a segment, expressing gratitude to everyone and saying that they had witnessed her grow up for all this time. Speaking about the actress’s work on the show, Sam Levinson said:
“Zendaya’s performance has been so wonderful and layered over the course of these seasons. We fell in love with this character – this girl who was flawed and fucked up but has a good heart. It’s a blessing work with talented people and people that you love.”
Zendaya had previously hinted in an interview with Drew Barrymore in April 2026 that Euphoria Season 3 is going to be the final installment. She said in the same conversation that ‘Rue’ taught her a lot about life, including empathy and redemption. She further stated that he owes a lot to the series since the crew has seen her grow up.
What are your thoughts about the decision of Sam Levinson to end the character of ‘Rue’ in Euphoria Season 3? Let us know.
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