Euphoria Season 3 Faces Critic Backlash Despite Stellar Cast

The Return of Euphoria Begins with a Stumble

Euphoria Season 3 is here, but the buzz isn’t all positive. Critics are weighing in, and the reviews for HBO's hit series aren’t what fans might expect. The show that stars Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney is struggling to win over the critics this time around.

The new season kicks off on HBO Max this Sunday, bringing back familiar faces like Zendaya’s Rue Bennett and Sweeney’s Cassie Howard. Other returning cast includes Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi, and Maude Apatow, with the series continuing to explore complex themes of faith, redemption, and the challenges of growing up.

Why Critics Are Not Enthused

Despite the anticipation, Euphoria Season 3 has garnered a lukewarm 53% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 19 reviews. Much of the criticism points to a lack of direction and spiritual depth, with storylines struggling to find their footing now that the characters have moved past high school.

Ben Travers of IndieWire remarks, “Most characters aren’t changing, nor are their motivations to change clear to them or novel to us. The result is a start to the supposedly final season that grows old instead of up, while evoking a once-unthinkable question: How could Euphoria become boring?”

“If the goal is to reflect a lack of direction or focus in the quarter-life crises of its characters through a show that also can’t maintain a train of thought, then mission accomplished,” Brian Tallerico adds for RogerEbert.com.

Performances Shine Amidst Critique

Although the narrative might falter, the cast’s performances receive widespread acclaim. Critics are in agreement that the acting is a major highlight, with names like Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, and Hunter Schafer receiving praise as "absolute superstars."

Nick Hilton from The Independent commends Zendaya and Sweeney for their strong performances, highlighting that there’s “scarcely a bum performance” among the cast.

Catch the premiere on April 12, 2026, and decide for yourself – Euphoria’s journey continues with weekly episodes, promising a total of eight for the season.