In a recent Variety interview, the actress looked back on the intense public attention that accompanied her portrayal of Cassie Howard, one of the show’s most polarizing characters.



<h2>Sydney Sweeney Says the Conversation Around Cassie Often Extended Beyond the Screen</h2>



When asked about the criticism she received during the run of “Euphoria,” Sweeney pointed to what she sees as a contradiction in the public response to both her character and herself. “I’ve always found it really interesting how people scrutinize how Cassie was treated on the show, and then they do it to me in real life,” she said.



The actress went on to argue that many viewers failed to recognize the parallel between the way Cassie was perceived within the series and the way discussions about the show often played out online. “There’s no awareness that [Cassie’s peers] sexualize Cassie on the show, but we’re going to do this in real life too.”



Sweeney acknowledged that the attention surrounding the role was not always easy to navigate, particularly as conversations about Cassie frequently spilled beyond the boundaries of the fictional character. “To be honest, sometimes it’s hard,” she admitted.



Still, the A-lister suggested that time may ultimately change how both the series and the discourse surrounding it are remembered. “I hope maybe years from now, when people are separated from the craziness and the clickbait of social media, someone who sits back and watch it all, doing a deep dive, goes, ‘Huh, maybe we all had this very wrong.’”

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Sydney Sweeney Opens Up About the Real-Life Scrutiny That Came With ‘Euphoria’ - Spoiler US

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The actress revealed that the abandoned scene would have taken Cassie’s impulsive behavior to a new level and even required her to learn a skill viewers never got the chance to see.



<h2>Sydney Sweeney Trained for a Deleted Pole Dancing Scene in ‘Euphoria’</h2>



While reflecting on material that never appeared in the HBO drama, Sweeney recalled a storyline involving Cassie and Maddy during a visit to a st**p club. In the scene, Cassie becomes captivated by the performers and starts imagining herself in their world.



Describing the character’s reaction, Sweeney said, “Cassie starts to see the girls on stage and she gets really excited. She’s like, ‘Wow, these girls are beautiful. I could do this.’” What begins as curiosity quickly spirals into the kind of reckless confidence that often defined Cassie’s most memorable storylines.



The sequence would have eventually placed Cassie in the spotlight herself. “She gets w**ted and she goes up on the stage, she gets all dressed up and Cassie pole dances,” Sweeney recalled.



To prepare for the scene, the actress underwent pole dancing training. “I did lessons for pole dancing, and it was so much fun,” she said. Looking back on the experience, she added, “Imagine crazy Cassie on a pole, which was hilarious.”



The revelation arrives just weeks after “Euphoria” wrapped its third and final part. The eight-episode farewell picked up years after the events of Season 2 and followed Rue, Cassie, Maddy, Jules, and the rest of the ensemble as they navigated adulthood. While the series ultimately ended with a very different version of Cassie’s story, Sweeney’s comments offer a glimpse at one of the many ideas that never made it from production to the screen.

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Sydney Sweeney Reveals the ‘Euphoria’ Scene She Trained for That Never Made the Final Cut - Spoiler US

The sequel to The Devil Wears Prada 2 arrives with the kind of polished anticipation that only a legacy franchise can carry—familiar faces, a reshaped fashion empire, and a story once again set against the quiet chaos of reinvention. Somewhere within that carefully constructed world, Sydney Sweeney briefly existed in the film’s early blueprint.



She filmed a cameo as herself, stepping into a scene reportedly tied to a Dior setting, where the industry’s new hierarchy intersects with returning characters like Emily Blunt’s Emily Charlton, now operating at a higher level of influence. But by the time the film reached its final cut, that moment had disappeared.



<h2>Why was Sydney Sweeney’s cameo cut from The Devil Wears Prada 2?</h2>



Sydney Sweeney did, in fact, film a cameo for The Devil Wears Prada 2—a roughly three-minute scene in which she played herself as a celebrity client being styled by Emily Blunt’s Emily Charlton at Dior. The moment was originally designed to help reintroduce Emily’s character early in the film, anchoring her new position within the fashion hierarchy.



The decision, according to Elle and EW, came down to structure rather than spectacle—a matter of pacing, tone, and narrative cohesion in a story that leaves little room for detours, however compelling they may be. 



What was once a three-minute window into celebrity and fashion crossover ultimately became an unseen fragment, trimmed in post-production as filmmakers refined the rhythm of a sequel built on precision. 



The sequence was part of the film’s opening but was ultimately condensed, with Sweeney’s appearance not fitting “structurally with the rest of the scene”, making its removal a difficult but deliberate creative choice.

Sydney Sweeney’s ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ Cameo Was Cut—Here’s What Happened

Sydney Sweeney’s ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ Cameo Was Cut—Here’s What Happened - Spoiler US

Sydney Sweeney is back in business with American Eagle, reuniting with the brand for a new campaign that leans into a lighter tone after last year’s widely debated rollout. 



According to TMZ, the actor has partnered once again with the retailer to introduce a fresh line of jean shorts timed for the summer season, marking her second high-profile collaboration with the company.



<h2>A Reset in Tone for Sydney Sweeney’s Latest American Eagle Campaign</h2>



Sydney Sweeney returns to American Eagle with “Syd for Short: American Eagle Jean Shorts,” a campaign that trades the more suggestive styling of her previous denim push for something noticeably more playful. The new visuals position Sweeney in a spirited, self-aware light.



The campaign video, available on American Eagle’s official YouTube channel, underscores that shift. In it, Sweeney playfully leans into the brand recognition surrounding her partnership, asking the camera, “What brand am I wearing?” before flashing a knowing smile and adding, “Yeah, that one,” signaling a more relaxed and self-referential approach to the rollout.



The tonal pivot follows the backlash tied to her July 2025 campaign, which became a flashpoint for online debate. While the controversy generated significant scrutiny, it also translated into strong engagement and commercial performance for the brand, setting the stage for her return in 2026.



As with her initial collaboration, the new collection incorporates a philanthropic element. Select items from the “Syd for Short” line will support Crisis Text Line, a nonprofit organization that provides round-the-clock mental health assistance.



Beyond fashion, Sweeney’s broader slate remains packed. She continues to balance acting and producing duties, with recent projects including the thriller “The Housemaid” and the final season of “Euphoria.” Through her company, Fifty-Fifty Films, she has expanded her footprint behind the camera, even as brand partnerships across beauty and fashion keep her firmly in the commercial spotlight.

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Sydney Sweeney Returns to American Eagle With New Shorts Campaign - Spoiler US

With a staggering five-year time jump moving the characters far beyond their high school lockers, critics are deeply divided over the gritty new narrative directions, particularly the wildly controversial arcs assigned to Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney.



Premiering on April 12, 2026, the highly anticipated third season of Euphoria completely abandoned its neon-soaked teenage origins in favor of a much darker, neo-Western landscape.&nbsp;



Creator Sam Levinson fundamentally altered the core dynamics of the entire ensemble. While the initial viewership numbers confirm that the show remains an absolute ratings powerhouse, professional reviewers and vocal fans are fiercely debating the creative merits of this drastic evolution. From rumors of behind-the-scenes cast drama to staggering character metamorphoses, the launch has generated an inescapable wave of digital discourse. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the critical reception surrounding the polarizing new season and the specific reactions to the show’s biggest stars.



<h2>The Audacious Five-Year Narrative Leap</h2>



By skipping half a decade of character development, the series forces audiences to immediately reconcile with jarring new realities. Viewers no longer watch anxious teenagers navigating locker room drama, but rather deeply traumatized adults dealing with severe financial and criminal consequences. Critics noted that this structural gamble allows the actors to finally play closer to their actual ages, shaking off the fatigue of high school tropes. However, several reviews pointed out that the abrupt transition leaves massive emotional gaps that the premiere struggles to coherently fill.



The initial review embargo lift revealed a fiercely divided critical landscape. Prominent outlets criticized the premiere. Conversely, other publications praised the sheer cinematic audacity, comparing the show’s new cartel-driven stakes to a Gen Z interpretation of Breaking Bad. The overarching sentiment suggests that while the visual flair remains impeccable, the narrative heavily relies on gratuitous provocation over substantial character growth.



<h2>Zendaya’s Rue Enters the Criminal Underworld</h2>



Rue Bennett’s highly anticipated return completely subverted audience expectations regarding her addiction recovery journey. Rather than focusing solely on her sobriety, the premiere reveals her working as a fentanyl drug mule, smuggling contraband across the Mexican border to pay off her debts to Laurie. Teaming up with a menacing new kingpin named Alamo Brown, her storyline abandons suburban angst for intense, blaxploitation-inspired cinematic peril. Reviewers widely acknowledged that this dark pivot permanently transforms Rue from a tragic teen into an active participant in organized crime.



Even the harshest detractors of the new season’s writing found themselves completely captivated by Zendaya’s leading performance. Entertainment journalists celebrated her ability to anchor the increasingly absurd and dangerous plotlines with profound, quiet devastation. She continues to be the emotional heartbeat of the series, effortlessly proving why she already secured two Emmy awards for the demanding role.



<h2>Sydney Sweeney’s Cassie Navigates Suburbia</h2>



Cassie Howard’s adult life is arguably the most jarring evolution presented in the season premiere. She is now trapped in a toxic, seemingly picture-perfect suburban marriage with Nate Jacobs, masking his crumbling business by pursuing a secret career as an adult platform content creator. The show depicts her recording cam-girl content while occasionally dressed in puppy costumes, desperate to maintain her lavish lifestyle. This bizarre domestic scenario immediately sparked massive debates regarding female exploitation and digital s*x work representations.



While Sydney Sweeney’s acting remains sharp, reviewers aggressively lambasted Sam Levinson’s handling of her character’s online s*x work storyline. Cultural commentators called the narrative execution bafflingly dated, pointing out that the show treats her cam-girl ambitions with a strange mixture of voyeurism and harsh judgment. Many writers argued that Cassie’s arc marks a regressive step backward for a previously complex protagonist, reducing both the character’s depth and Sweeney’s role to a focus on her appearance.



<h2>Behind-the-Scenes Feuds Shadowing the Premiere</h2>



The intense on-screen drama has been significantly rivaled by persistent rumors of off-screen turmoil. Leading up to the debut, tabloids extensively reported on alleged, escalating tensions between Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney, claiming the fallout plunged the production into chaos. While neither actress has publicly confirmed the rumored feud, critics noted that the press tour carried a distinct flavor of contractual obligation, lacking the usual cast camaraderie. This perceived backstage friction has inevitably colored the way audiences are interpreting their heavily isolated character arcs.



<h2>A Drastic Shift in Auditory Identity</h2>



Beyond the visual and narrative shifts, the soundscape of Euphoria underwent a massive, highly controversial transformation. The genius composer Labrinth, whose gospel-electronic beats defined the emotional landscape of the first two seasons, abruptly exited the project following reported industry disagreements. The premiere subsequently replaced his sweeping original scores with standard musical needle drops, leaving a noticeable void in the show’s atmosphere. Reviewers frequently cited this musical downgrade as a major reason why the new episodes feel strangely disconnected from the original magic of the series.

‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Premiere: Critics React to Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney’s Wild Character Arcs

‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Premiere: Critics React to Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney’s Wild Character Arcs - Spoiler US

With a massive five-year time jump, shocking new careers for the East Highland crew, and major behind-the-scenes drama, here is your ultimate guide to the highly anticipated—and likely final—season.



The glitter is back, but the high school hallways are officially a thing of the past. Tonight, Sunday, April 12, 2026, Euphoria finally returns to HBO and Max for its highly anticipated third season. Following a massive four-year gap between seasons, creator Sam Levinson is taking a massive narrative swing by aging up the famously chaotic characters and throwing them directly into the unforgiving realities of adulthood.



As fans flood social media with countdowns and theories, the internet buzz is absolutely deafening. From surprising new cast additions to a complete overhaul of the show’s iconic soundtrack, the stakes have never been higher. Before you tune in tonight at 9 PM ET, here is everything you need to know about the cinematic return of Rue, Jules, Cassie, and the rest of the crew.



<h2>When and Where to Watch</h2>



<ul><li>Premiere Time: Tonight, April 12 at 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT.</li><li>Where to Watch: Airing live on HBO and streaming simultaneously on Max.</li><li>Season Length: The season consists of 8 episodes, rolling out weekly.</li><li>The Series Finale: Mark your calendars for May 31, 2026, which is officially being billed as the end of the entire Euphoria saga.</li></ul>



<h2>The Five-Year Time Jump: Where Are They Now?</h2>



The biggest twist of Season 3 is that the show has completely abandoned the high school setting. The narrative jumps forward five full years, placing the characters squarely in their early twenties. According to the official logline, the new season follows the childhood friends as they “wrestle with the virtue of faith, the possibility of redemption, and the problem of evil.”



<h3>Here is where we find our favorite messy characters tonight:</h3>



<ul><li>Rue Bennett (Zendaya): Rue’s journey takes a dark, international turn. The premiere opens with Rue down in Mexico, still profoundly entangled in the dangerous criminal underworld and deeply in debt to the terrifying drug dealer, Laurie.</li><li>Cassie Howard (Sydney Sweeney) &amp; Nate Jacobs (Jacob Elordi): In a twist that has the internet collectively gasping, Cassie and Nate are now married and living in suburbia. Cassie has reportedly transitioned into an adult content creator heavily obsessed with social media, presenting a “perfect” facade that is bound to shatter.</li><li>Maddy Perez (Alexa Demie): Leaving the small-town drama behind, Maddy has successfully relocated to Hollywood, climbing the fierce corporate ladder as a talent agent.</li><li>Jules Vaughn (Hunter Schafer): Jules has enrolled in a prestigious art school, pursuing her creative passions away from the toxic gravity of her hometown.</li><li>Lexi Howard (Maude Apatow): The former high school playwright has officially entered the entertainment industry, working as an assistant to a powerful television showrunner (played by massive guest star Sharon Stone).</li></ul>



<h2>The Buzz, The Critics, and Cast Declarations</h2>



The anticipation surrounding tonight’s premiere is practically breaking the internet, bolstered by a massive Coachella teaser and heavy promotional drops. Critics who caught early glimpses have noted that the season feels incredibly mature and cinematic, trading the neon-soaked locker room anxiety for high-stakes, adult consequences.



Sam Levinson’s Vision: Creator and director Sam Levinson has confidently declared this will be the show’s “best season yet.” He noted that taking the characters out of high school allowed the writers to explore post-college lives and adult desperation with entirely fresh stakes. Zendaya, who returns as the show’s emotional anchor and narrator, has echoed this sentiment, teasing that Rue’s journey of redemption this season is the most complex work she has ever done for the series.



<h3>The Soundtrack Drama:</h3>



Perhaps the most shocking pre-premiere buzz revolves around the show’s music. Last month, fans were stunned when Labrinth—the genius composer behind the show’s defining, Emmy-winning soundscape—abruptly exited the series. Following a cryptic and expletive-laced Instagram post (“Double f*** Euphoria”), he later clarified that he removed his music from Season 3 due to industry mistreatment.



In a staggering pivot, HBO brought in legendary Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer to create an entirely new, sweeping musical identity for the season. The shift from Labrinth’s gospel-electronic beats to Zimmer’s grand, cinematic orchestration is expected to drastically alter the tone of the show, aligning perfectly with the mature time jump.



<h2>Is This Really the End?</h2>



All signs point to yes. With the actors’ skyrocketing film careers—Zendaya, Sweeney, and Elordi are all currently anchoring massive Hollywood blockbusters—getting the ensemble back together was a logistical miracle in itself. The May 31 finale is expected to serve as the definitive conclusion to the series, giving fans exactly eight weeks to say goodbye to the most chaotic, visually stunning, and culturally impactful teen drama of the modern era

The Wait Is Over: Everything You Need to Know Before ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Premieres Tonight

The Wait Is Over: Everything You Need to Know Before ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Premieres Tonight - Spoiler US

As the search for the next Bond girl continues, one familiar name keeps reentering the spotlight. Sydney Sweeney is once again being linked to the evolving 007 universe, with renewed attention following recent comments from filmmaker Paul Feig.



<h2>Why Sydney Sweeney Is Back at the Center of the 007 Casting Conversation</h2>



The latest wave of speculation was sparked by Paul Feig, who recently collaborated with Sydney Sweeney on “The Housemaid” and weighed in on the ongoing discussion about her potential involvement in the franchise. While much of the online chatter has framed her as a prospective Bond girl, Feig told The Sun he would prefer to see her step into the role of the titular spy.



Sydney Sweeney has also addressed the speculation, though without confirming any involvement. In an October interview with Variety, she downplayed the reports, saying, “To be honest, I don’t know all the Bond rumors,” while emphasizing her long-standing appreciation for the series. Asked about the possibility of playing a Bond girl, she noted it would “depend on the script,” before jokingly adding, “I think I’d have more fun as James Bond.”



All of this unfolds as the franchise prepares for a significant reset following Daniel Craig’s five-film run as 007. The next installment is expected to be directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Steven Knight, with Amazon MGM Studios overseeing development. Early indications suggest a younger version of Bond is being considered, though no casting decisions have been finalized.



Sweeney’s name has continued to surface in industry discussions, with reports describing her as a strong contender for a major role in the reboot. For now, her involvement remains unconfirmed. The announcement will likely come closer to, or even after, Denis Villeneuve releases “Dune: Part Three” on December 18.

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Will Sydney Sweeney Be the Next Bond Girl? Inside the Speculation - Spoiler US

Director Paul Feig has added a surprising name to the ongoing James Bond speculation, putting his support behind Sydney Sweeney as a potential successor to Daniel Craig. 



Speaking with The Sun, Feig made his case as the buzz around their latest collaboration, “The Housemaid,” continues to build, especially with a sequel now set for December 17, 2027, and Kirsten Dunst joining the cast.



<h2>Sydney Sweeney Enters the Bond Conversation</h2>



As the search for the next 007 intensifies, Feig has made it clear he sees Sweeney in a far more central role than previously rumored. “I would rather Sydney be the next Bond,” he said.



His endorsement leans heavily on her work ethic and presence on set. “There have been some cool Bond girls, but come on, let her be the super-spy, she’s great. She’s one of the hardest-working people I know, so professional, so smart, so savvy,” Feig noted, pointing to qualities he believes would translate naturally into the demands of a global franchise. He added, “I think she’d be a good spy.”



The suggestion arrives at a moment of transition for the long-running series. The next installment, commonly referred to as “Bond 26,” is set to be directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Steven Knight, with the project aiming for a late-decade release. With Daniel Craig having exited after “No Time to Die,” producers are widely expected to introduce a younger iteration of the character, though no official casting decision has been announced.



Sweeney’s name enters a crowded field of speculation that has largely focused on male contenders. The actress, currently balancing a slate of high-profile projects including the latest season of “Euphoria” and multiple producing ventures, has steadily expanded her footprint in Hollywood both in front of and behind the camera.

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Sydney Sweeney Should Be the Next James Bond, ‘Housemaid’ Director Paul Feig Says - Spoiler US

Momentum is steadily rebuilding around the return of Euphoria, as anticipation grows for its third season on HBO. With the show back in the cultural spotlight after a long production pause, attention has shifted heavily toward its cast and every public appearance linked to the project.



That focus intensified after both Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney attended a Season 3-related red carpet event, even though they were not seen interacting or posing together. The lack of public exchange between the two quickly caught the attention of fans and social media users, fueling renewed speculation about the dynamics within the cast.



<h2>What is behind the rumored Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney tension?</h2>



The chatter around a possible rift between Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney has been one of the most talked‑about off‑screen side stories as Euphoria gears up for its third season. According to multiple entertainment reports, part of the online narrative stems from the actresses’ perceived contrasting political views. 



Zendaya has been publicly associated with progressive positions and criticism of Donald Trump-era politics, while Sweeney has faced online backlash and speculation due to associations with conservative-leaning imagery and campaigns.



Much of the speculation started when Sweeney was absent from key promotional materials, including a group teaser photo of the female cast that circulated online, something many fans noticed and immediately began interpreting as a sign of distance between cast members. 



Around the same time, a red‑carpet appearance for the Season 3 premiere saw both actresses attend but stand apart from each other in several photos, which further fueled online discussion. Neither of them has confirmed the beef, so their distance remains a mystery.

Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney Reunite on ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Red Carpet Amid Rumored Tension

Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney Reunite on ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Red Carpet Amid Rumored Tension - Spoiler US

The wait for “Euphoria” Season 3 has been so extensive that it practically qualifies as a historical era in pop culture. When we last saw Cassie Howard and her frantic bathroom breakdown in 2022, Sydney Sweeney was a rising talent with a penchant for scene-stealing. 



As we stand just seven days away from the April 12 premiere, she returns to the hit production not just as a cast member, but as a genuine titan of the industry. During the show’s long hiatus, Sweeney successfully navigated the treacherous transition from teen drama favorite to A-list movie star, a feat few of her contemporaries have managed with such calculated precision.



<h2>The Meteoric Rise of Fifty-Fifty Films and Box Office Dominance</h2>



While the production of “Euphoria” faced numerous delays and scripts were being rewritten for the five-year time jump, Sweeney refused to stay static. She utilized the break to launch her production company, Fifty-Fifty Films, proving that she had as much business savvy as she did acting range. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="90682" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/04/05094341/Sydney1-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-90682"><figcaption>Source: Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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By taking the reins of her own projects, she bypassed the typical typecasting that haunts young actresses. She moved seamlessly from the viral success of “Anyone But You,” a picture that single-handedly revitalized the theatrical romantic comedy genre, to the atmospheric horror of “Immaculate,” where her harrowing final-girl performance earned her serious critical stripes.



Her journey through the hiatus wasn’t without its growing pains, specifically her foray into the superhero genre with 2024’s “Madame Web.” Playing Julia Cornwall in the Sony “Spider-Man” Universe entry, Sweeney found herself at the center of a production that was famously panned by critics and mocked across social media. However, in a move that defined her A-list resilience, she managed to pivot away from the film’s box-office bomb status almost instantly.



She followed that spectacle with a complete physical transformation in the 2025 biographical sports drama “Christy.” Portraying the legendary trailblazer Christy Martin, Sweeney traded the glitter of East Highland for the brutal, bloody reality of the boxing ring. While the movie struggled to find an audience at the box office and faced a difficult theatrical run, it served a vital purpose in her career architecture. It allowed her to showcase a raw, transformative athleticism and emotional depth that silenced doubters who viewed her only through a glamour lens. 



Perhaps her most significant power move during the hiatus was taking on both the lead role and a producing credit in “The Housemaid.” Stepping into the role of Millie Calloway allowed her to headline a major psychological thriller, further cementing her status as a leading lady capable of carrying a film on her name alone.



By the time cameras finally started rolling for “Euphoria” Season 3 in early 2025, Sweeney had already headlined multiple global press tours and built a resume that most actors spend decades trying to curate. She effectively used the break to ensure that when she returned to television, she did so as a titan of the industry.

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‘Euphoria’ Returns in One Week: How Sydney Sweeney Became an A-Lister During the Show’s Hiatus - Spoiler US

Euphoria didn’t just launch a new generation of stars—it reshaped the business around them. As Zendaya negotiated a historic TV deal and Sydney Sweeney saw her value skyrocket, the gap between fame and pay has become one of the show’s most compelling off-screen stories.



The salary contrast sets the stage for a deeper question: in a show where multiple stars have broken into Hollywood’s A-list, does success translate equally when it comes to paychecks—or is there still a clear frontrunner when the numbers are finally revealed?



<h2>Who Earns More on Euphoria?</h2>



Zendaya is clearly the highest-paid star on Euphoria, earning significantly more per episode than Sydney Sweeney. Reports indicate that she secured a deal worth around $1 million per episode for Season 3 after renegotiating her contract with HBO.



That figure places her in a completely different tier compared to Sydney Sweeney. While her salary has grown substantially over time, her early earnings were far more modest—reportedly around $25,000 per episode in Season 1, totaling about $200,000 for the season.



The difference ultimately comes down to leverage and role within the show. Zendaya is not only the lead character but also an executive producer, which gives her additional negotiating power and backend earnings.



Her two Emmy wins for Euphoria and global recognition from major franchises have only strengthened her position as the face of the series. Meanwhile, Sweeney’s rise has followed a more traditional trajectory.



She entered the show as part of the ensemble and became a breakout star over time, earning critical acclaim and award nominations. As her profile has grown—thanks to projects outside Euphoria—so has her salary, but her contracts were initially structured before she reached A-list status.

Zendaya vs. Sydney Sweeney: Who Is Euphoria’s Highest-Paid Star?

Zendaya vs. Sydney Sweeney: Who Is Euphoria’s Highest-Paid Star? - Spoiler US

The success of Euphoria hasn’t just turned heads for its bold storytelling—it has also made its cast some of the most in-demand young stars in Hollywood. Led by Zendaya, the series has elevated actors like Jacob Elordi and Sydney Sweeney into global fame, sparking growing curiosity about what they actually earn per episode.



As the show gained momentum across its seasons, so did the paychecks. Early salaries were modest compared to other HBO hits, but renegotiations, awards buzz, and rising star power significantly shifted the numbers.



<h2>Is Zendaya or Sydney Sweeney the Top Earner on Euphoria?</h2>



Zendaya is the top earner on Euphoria, by a significant margin. The Emmy-winning lead reportedly earns around $1 million per episode, placing her among the highest-paid actors on television and well above her co-stars.



That gap largely comes down to star power and role importance. Zendaya isn’t just the face of the series—she also serves as an executive producer, which typically boosts earnings through backend deals and renegotiated contracts.



After the show’s breakout success and multiple Emmy wins, she was able to secure a historic salary bump ahead of Season 3. By contrast, Sydney Sweeney, despite becoming one of the show’s breakout stars, operates in a different salary tier.



In short, while both actresses are now major Hollywood names, Euphoria’s pay structure still reflects its hierarchy: Zendaya at the top, with co-stars like Sydney Sweeney rising, but not yet matching her level financially.



<h2>How Much Do Euphoria Stars Earn Per Episode?</h2>



At the top sits Emmy-winning star Zendaya (Spider-Man and Dune), who reportedly earns around $1 million per episode heading into Season 3. The rest of the cast operates on a completely different scale.



Sydney Sweeney, one of the show’s breakout stars, reportedly earned around $25,000 per episode in earlier seasons, with total pay for a season estimated near $350,000. However, it is estimated that her salary has now increased and could be approaching $1 million, similar to Jacob Elordi’s pay.



The Richest reported that Alexa Demie, Maude Apatow, Hunter Schafer and the rest of the cast are expected to earn between $250,000 and $500,000 per episode. In total, Season 3 will have eight episodes, which will arrive on HBO Max on April 12, releasing one episode per week.

How Much the Euphoria Cast Really Earns Per Episode: What Zendaya, Jacob Elordi and Co-Stars Make

How Much the Euphoria Cast Really Earns Per Episode: What Zendaya, Jacob Elordi and Co-Stars Make - Spoiler US

Kim Novak is not quietly observing Hollywood revisit her past. According to Variety, the screen icon used a recent interview with The Times of London to deliver a blunt assessment of “Scandalous,” the upcoming drama centered on her relationship with Sammy Davis Jr.. At the center of her frustration is the film’s casting, with Sydney Sweeney stepping into her role.



<h2>Novak Pushes Back on Casting and Direction of ‘Scandalous’</h2>



The project, backed by Miramax and directed by Colman Domingo, was initially set to shoot in Los Angeles following the completion of the third season of “Euphoria.” It remains unclear whether principal photography has begun, and no release date has been announced.



Novak made clear she would not have supported the film, stating she would have “never approved” it. She also addressed Sweeney’s casting directly, saying the actress is “totally wrong to play me” because she “sticks out so much above the waist.”



In the same interview, Novak raised concerns about how the relationship may be depicted on screen, suggesting the picture could emphasize its sexual dimension too much. She said their connection was based on having “so much in common,” while also remarking, “There’s no way it wouldn’t be a sexual relationship because Sydney Sweeney looks sexy all the time.”



Sweeney, who is also producing the film, has previously said she feels honored to take on the role, highlighting the relevance of the story regarding privacy and image. For now, Variety reports that her representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Kim Novak Says Sydney Sweeney Is “Totally Wrong to Play Me” in Her Biopic ‘Scandalous’ - Spoiler US

When a psychological thriller like The Housemaid funnels almost $400 million at the global box office, it’s hardly surprising that Hollywood reaches back into that dark, twisting world for another chapter. 



The Housemaid’s Secret — the newly announced sequel to the 2025 hit The Housemaid — will reunite its star Sydney Sweeney with a formidable new on‑screen presence in Kirsten Dunst, a performer whose career has woven between indie darlings and blockbuster landscapes with a rare, almost chimeric ease.



<h2>Kirsten Dunst’s Casting Is the Big Story in The Housemaid’s Secret</h2>



The most talked‑about element of the upcoming sequel The Housemaid’s Secret isn’t just that it continues the psychological twists of the 2025 thriller, it’s the addition of Kirsten Dunst to a cast already anchored by Sydney Sweeney.



Lionsgate confirmed that Dunst, an Oscar‑nominated actor whose career spans from early genre lore to prestige dramas, will appear alongside Sweeney in the film adaptation of Freida McFadden’s bestselling second novel.



Studio president Erin Westerman praised Dunst as “an icon” whose range and fearlessness will bring new energy to the sequel’s shadowed world, implying her role may be central to the story’s new mysteries.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/03/23152226/Kirsten-Dunst-and-Sydney-Sweeney-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-89541"><figcaption>Kirsten Dunst and Sydney Sweeney (Source: Mike Coppola/Getty Images — IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Early reports suggest she could portray a reclusive character, likely the mysterious Mrs. Garrick, who hires Millie (Sweeney’s character) and sets the unsettling new events in motion, though specific character details remain tightly under wraps.



The casting marks a clear shift in the franchise’s tone: while the first film’s suspense was largely carried by Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried’s dynamic, adding Dunst — known for both mainstream hits and critically acclaimed roles — signals a desire to deepen the drama and intrigue.



Her presence also underscores how the project is positioning itself not merely as a commercial follow‑up but as a cinematic event that blends star power with psychological storytelling.

Kirsten Dunst Teams Up with Sydney Sweeney for ‘The Housemaid’s Secret’

Kirsten Dunst Teams Up with Sydney Sweeney for ‘The Housemaid’s Secret’ - Spoiler US

When <a href="https://spoiler.bolavip.com/en/topic/sydney-sweeney">Sydney Sweeney</a> and Jonathan Davino first launched their production company in 2019, it seemed to mirror a personal and professional partnership on the rise. The venture, Fifty-Fifty Films LLC, backed projects like Anyone But You and the horror title Immaculate, blending her on-screen momentum with a budding media footprint shared with her then-fiancé.



But in late 2025, legal filings in California quietly rewrote that chapter: the company was formally dissolved with unanimous approval of its members, ending a business connection that had lingered months after the couple’s romantic split earlier that year. By January 2026, she had relaunched the entity under her sole leadership.



<h2>Sydney Sweeney takes full control after professional split</h2>



Sydney Sweeney has taken a decisive step in closing a chapter that blurred the lines between her personal life and her burgeoning Hollywood career. After nearly a year since splitting from her ex-fiancé Jonathan Davino, the Euphoria star has reportedly dissolved the production company they co-founded together.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/02/24123443/Sydney-Sweeney-and-Jonathan-Davino-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-86488"><figcaption>Sydney Sweeney and Jonathan Davino (Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images — Amy Sussman/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



In December 2025, official filings in California showed that Fifty-Fifty Films LLC was formally disbanded with unanimous approval from its members—effectively terminating their business partnership.



Originally launched in January 2019 as an “independent production studio”, the company backed several high-profile projects during their time together. But behind the scenes, the professional alliance endured even after the couple’s engagement ended in early 2025, with both previously still listed as managers of the entity as recently as May of that year.



Now, Sweeney appears determined to shape her career on her own terms. In January 2026, she filed paperwork to launch a new iteration of the business—Fifty-Fifty Films, Inc.—with herself as the sole leader, listed as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary.

Sydney Sweeney Ends Production Venture Tied to Ex-Fiancé Jonathan Davino

Sydney Sweeney Ends Production Venture Tied to Ex-Fiancé Jonathan Davino - Spoiler US

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