The third season of Euphoria has faced significant backlash for its portrayal of female characters and overall narrative direction. The hit teen drama, which first aired in 2019, has been criticized for its character development and shift away from its high school setting.
Viewers have expressed disappointment with the evolution of key characters. For instance, Cassie’s character arc has shifted to being a neo-trad OnlyFans wife. Rue’s character has been described as a flat stereotype of a lesbian in season three. Critics argue that the women in Euphoria are depicted as shallow parodies of themselves.
Key statistics highlight the show’s popularity despite the criticism:
- 6 million views per episode in its first month and a half
- Highest HBO viewership in history for the premiere of its second season
- Three friends of the cast have attempted suicide in two years
The absence of a high school setting has been noted as a significant change in season three. Critics say this shift alters the core essence of the show. Some episodes, particularly “Kitty Likes to Dance,” were described as a return to form.
Yet, many viewers feel that the initial charm and relatability are lost. The opening episodes felt like a different show altogether—a gritty neo-western crime thriller about loan sharks and drug cartels. This drastic change has led to further discontent among fans.
Statements from critics reveal their concerns:
“Euphoria seems to actively enjoy degrading its female characters and wants viewers to enjoy it too.” and “The most jarring shift from previous seasons has been the absence of a high school setting.”.
The show’s themes—drug use and mental health issues—remain prevalent throughout. However, many believe that the narrative direction undermines these important topics.
As discussions continue, it remains unclear how producers will address viewer feedback moving forward.
