Zendaya Says ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Could Be Its Last

Zendaya says the upcoming third season of “Euphoria” could mark the end of the HBO series. Speaking ahead of the premiere, she pointed to closure for the story and reflected on the role that reshaped her career and deepened her understanding of empathy and growth.

Fans of "Euphoria" will need to prepare for the coming end, as Zendaya says the series is likely to stop after season 3, with it premiering on April 12, 2026.

The actress spoke about the future of the HBO series during an appearance on the April 6, 2026 episode of “The Drew Barrymore Show.” Asked if season 3 would be the last, she said, “I think so,” adding that “closure is coming.”

Zendaya’s comments match earlier statements from HBO. Francesca Orsi, HBO’s head of drama, previously told Deadline that season 3 would be the final installment of the series.

The combined statements from the network and the show’s lead point to a planned ending.

Zendaya Reflects on Role

Zendaya also discussed the impact of playing Rue Bennett. “Euphoria, it cracked my heart open,” she said. “Rue taught me so much about life. I mean, that crew also has seen me grow up. I owe so much to that show.”

She added, “Rue taught me so much about empathy and about redemption. She taught me a lot, and I'm very grateful for all of it.” The role has defined a major part of her recent career.

Return After Four-Year Gap

Season 3 premieres on April 12, 2026, and arrives four years after season 2 aired in 2022. The previous season ended with Rue maintaining sobriety for a period after struggling with drug addiction.

“I stayed clean through the rest of the school year. I wish I could say that was a decision I made. In some ways, it was just easier,” she said in the finale. The line left her long-term future uncertain.

HBO renewed “Euphoria” in February 2022, but filming for season 3 did not begin until February 2025. Production had originally been expected to start in early 2024. Despite the delay, the show maintained strong interest from viewers, with many anticipating the release of the third installment.

Direction for Rue

Creator Sam Levinson has confirmed a time jump for season 3. Rue is now in Mexico and dealing with debt to Laurie. She is trying to find ways to repay it.

Zendaya has said she hopes the new season shows some improvement in Rue’s life. She wants “a little bit of happiness and a little bit of joy” for the character. At the same time, Rue’s past struggles are expected to remain part of the story.

Other characters have also moved forward. Cassie and Nate are married. Jules is in art school. Maddy works at a Hollywood talent agency. Lexi is an assistant to a showrunner played by Sharon Stone. The changes shift the story beyond its original high school setting.

“Euphoria” appears set to end with its third season. Zendaya and HBO have both pointed to a final chapter. With a time jump and new storylines, the series is positioned to close out its characters’ arcs when it returns in April.