After three seasons, ‘Euphoria‘ became one of HBO’s defining dramas, launching many actors to stardom. While Zendaya had already worked extensively on television with shows such as ‘Shake It Up‘ and ‘K.C. Undercover,’ her role on the HBO show gave her a depth like no other.
Recently, the actress looked back on her farewell to the show that shaped much of her career. Reflecting on the experience during a talk show, the Emmy-winning actress spoke about the show’s lasting impact but stopped short of explaining why the goodbye affected her so deeply. That answer came later as she reflected on nearly a decade spent with the cast, crew, and the character who changed her life.
Zendaya Says ‘Euphoria’ Became A Defining Part Of Her 20s
During her recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Zendaya was asked whether she had mixed emotions about ‘Euphoria’ ending. The actress didn’t hesitate, saying, “Of course, of course.”
Related: Zendaya Recalls The One Childhood Lesson That Completely Changed The Way She Sees Bullying Now
“It was, you know, such a huge part of my life. And it was so much of my 20s. And I feel like I made so many lasting, loving friendships. And I learned so much about myself.” Zendaya joined the HBO series in 2018, playing a drug addict, Rue Bennett.
Over the next several years, she earned critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards for her character. In fact, the role became one of the defining performances of her career. The actress also formed close bonds behind the scenes.
A featurette released by HBO captured her final day on set, showing Zendaya thanking the crew who had been with her throughout the show’s run. “I just want to say thank you. I’m incredibly grateful for every single one of you,” she said.
“Many of you have been here from the beginning and watched me grow up. It’s been a pleasure and an honor. Thank you so much.” Director of photography Marcell Rév described her final shooting day as “a very emotional day.”
Several crew members even wore glitter beneath their eyes to honor Rue’s signature makeup from the first season. Hunter Schafer also reflected on working alongside Zendaya, saying she felt “so lucky” that her first major scene partner “ended up being a soulmate.”
Rue’s Tragic Ending Added To The Emotional Goodbye
Zendaya’s farewell became even harder because of Rue’s fate in the series finale. The character dies after unknowingly taking Percocet laced with fentanyl. Drug kingpin Alamo Brown orchestrates the deadly setup after learning Rue had cooperated with federal authorities.
In Case You Missed It: “That Would Be Really Fun”: Tom Holland Reveals His Dream Movie With Zendaya After Spider-Man
The ending sparked widespread discussion among viewers. Show creator Sam Levinson later explained that he wanted to tell an honest story about addiction. He also wanted to explore grief and the emotional pain it leaves behind.
For Zendaya, though, Rue’s legacy reaches far beyond the heartbreaking ending. During an earlier appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, she shared how deeply the character had influenced her own life. “Rue broke my heart open,” the actress said.
“Rue taught me so much about life. That crew has also seen me grow up. I owe so much to that show. Rue taught me so much about empathy and redemption.” Zendaya also made it clear that the show’s greatest reward wasn’t the awards or the acclaim.
Instead, she treasures the people who found comfort and understanding through Rue’s journey. “I honestly think the most important thing I always carry with me is the people who connected and loved Rue,” she said.
Although Zendaya has moved on to projects including ‘The Odyssey,’ ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day,’ and ‘Dune: Part Three,’ the HBO show remains a defining chapter in her career. It introduced audiences to one of television’s most memorable characters and gave the actress a role she says shaped much of her twenties.
You Might Also Like To Read: The One Hilarious Childhood Lie Matt Damon Told Casey Affleck That Left Him Completely Fooled for Months
