The set of Euphoria has recently come under fire from reports of a toxic work environment, which HBO is now trying to defend against.
Here is the full statement from HBO: “The well-being of cast and crew on our productions is always a top priority. The production was in full compliance with all safety guidelines and guild protocols. It’s not uncommon for drama series to have complex shoots, and COVID protocols add an additional layer. We maintain an open line of communication with all the guilds, including SAG-AFTRA. There were never any formal inquiries raised.”
Opposed to HBO’s statement is a report published by The Daily Beast, which provides multiple claims from background actors that there was, “multiple complaints made to SAG-AFTRA over the production failing to provide them meals on time and refusing to let people use the bathroom.” Sources also told the publication that the set “didn’t have a proper holding area for the extras” and that “there were so many complaints called into SAG-AFTRA that a union rep turned up to set.”
Jacob Elordi, who was paid $200K for Season 2 also weighed in on the matter, “We’re making movies, you know what I mean?” he told Variety after the Season 2 finale. “I mean that in the broad sense, like this is filmmaking. And whilst you shouldn’t suffer, to me, there’s great value in working hard. And for every hour that I’ve personally put in on that set, I can see it when I watch the show, and I can feel it when I’m walking on the street and people love the show.”
