Euphoria'S Latest Season Under Fire: How It Misrepresents Sex Work

Why Euphoria's Latest Season Is Stirring Controversy

Season three of HBO’s hit show Euphoria has landed in hot water with Australian sex workers and advocacy groups. The new season, currently airing in Australia, has been called out for its inaccurate and potentially damaging portrayal of the sex work industry.

This season sees key characters like Sydney Sweeney’s Cassie, Zendaya's Rue, and others delve into sex work after a five-year leap from the previous season. The storyline reveals Rue working for a pimp, Jules becoming a sugar baby, and Cassie and Maddy plotting to launch their OnlyFans careers. What’s more, character Kat, played by Barbie Ferrera, continues her journey as a camgirl.

Euphoria's Depiction of Sex Work: A Flat Narrative?

The series has drawn criticism not just for the sheer number of characters involved in sex work, but for how they're portrayed. Several scenes have raised eyebrows, such as Cassie’s controversial portrayal which involves infantilized themes, and unflattering dialogues labeling sex workers as "prostitutes" or "hookers."

“Sam Levinson, a white, cishet male, writes these storylines leading to a one-dimensional portrayal, presenting sex workers merely as objects of a fantasy,” noted Bambi, a Sydney-based sex worker.

The show’s creator, Sam Levinson, has been accused of failing to offer a nuanced depiction of sex workers, instead perpetuating simplified stereotypes. This criticism is not new, as Levinson has faced backlash in the past for similar issues, including his excessive use of nudity.

The Broader Impact of Euphoria's Representation

Despite Levinson’s defense that his work plays into the "absurdity" of the characters' situations, critics say this approach only deepens the stigmas surrounding sex work. Recently, audience members took to X to voice their disappointment, asserting that the portrayal doesn’t reflect the realities of online sex workers.

The Sex Worker Outreach Project (SWOP) added, "Media depicting sex workers as victims or criminals undermines efforts for decriminalization and recognition as legitimate work." These portrayals, they argue, shift focus away from structural issues impacting sex work communities.

As Euphoria continues its run on HBO Max, viewers and critics alike are skeptical that the show will evolve its narrative before the season closes.