Season three of Euphoria has been dealt an early blow after Barbie Ferreira revealed she’s not returning to the series.
Ferreira played Katherine “Kat” Hernandez throughout the first two seasons, a teenager fighting for body positivity while exploring her sexuality.
However, rumours spread earlier this year that the actress had been feuding with Euphoria creator Sam Levinson over the direction her character was taking. That allegedly saw Ferreira get less screen time in season two, with HBO having to deny that she stormed off set at one point.
After the rumours emerged, Ferreira told Insider that the reports were untrue. “What’s interesting about this season is there are so many more eyes on it that even the news cycle has been so interesting to see,” she said following season two’s finale. “I’ve seen so many different things and a lot of it is untrue, and some of it’s kind of like mundane little things.”
“Sometimes, things take on a life of their own, and they’re not rooted in the truth, but it’s okay because I know it’s just out of passion and out of curiosity and all that good stuff. And I signed up for it. So, I’ll take it. I’ll take the good and the bad.”
However, there could be some truth to the rumours, with Ferreira today announcing via an Instagram Story that she was leaving Euphoria. “After four years of getting to embody the most special and enigmatic character Kat, I’m having to say a very teary eyed goodbye,” she wrote.
“I hope many of you could see yourself in her like I did and that she brought you joy to see her journey into the character she is today. I put all my care and love into her and I hope you guys could feel it. Love you Katherine Hernandez.”
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At the time of writing, it’s unclear if Ferreira’s departure was a mutual decision or not. HBO hasn’t commented publicly on the announcement yet. More to come.
For more on this topic, follow the Film & TV Observer.
