The U.S. Sun reports that Euphoria actress Barbie Ferriera (Nope, Unpregnant) has opted not to return to the Emmy-nominated show for its third season. After rumors of on-set tension with the series creator and an underdeveloped storyline in season two, Ferriera posted a message about her departure on her Instagram stories yesterday.
“After four years of getting to embody the most special and enigmatic character Kat, I’m having to say a very teary-eyed goodbye,” Ferreira stated in the post via The U.S. Sun. “I hope many of you could see yourself in her like i did and that she brought you joy to see her journey into the character she is today.” The message was accompanied by drawing of her character, Kat Hernandez, dolled up as her live-cam show persona.
According to The U.S. Sun, stories regarding Ferriera’s issues with Euphoria’s creator, Sam Levinson (The Idol, Malcolm & Marie) began to surface during the production of the second season. The Daily Beast reported Ferriera had “stormed off set” after feuding with Levinson and his creative direction for her character. In season one, Ferriera’s Kat explored her sexuality as a full-figured sex pot, only to be somewhat sidelined last season which many fans felt was a muted plot centered on her dislike of her boyfriend.
As production continued, Ferriera defended her character’s narrative against rumors and scrutiny.
“Sometimes, things take on a life of their own, and they’re not rooted in the truth,” Ferriera stated to Insider, “but it’s okay because I know it’s just out of passion and out of curiosity and all that good stuff. And I signed up for it.” HBO reportedly issued a statement declaring that the alleged confrontation did not happen, however, Ferriera skipped attending the second season premiere.
The second season of Euphoria is nominated for 16 Emmy Awards this year including a second Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series nom for Zendaya (Dune, Spider-Man: Homecoming). She coveted the award in 2020 making her the youngest and the only second Black actress to win the Lead Actress trophy. She is joined by Colman Domingo (Zola, Fear the Walking Dead), Sydney Sweeney (The White Lotus, Sharp Objects), and Martha Kelly (Hacks, Gaslit) with their own respective nominations.
The third season of Euphoria is rumored for a 2024 release date.