RIP ‘Euphoria’: Creator Sam Levinson Explains Why This Is The End

About this episode

Sam Levinson discusses the conclusion of HBO's 'Euphoria' and his creative journey.

Sam Levinson, the writer, director and creator of “Euphoria,” sat down with Joe and Jon to explain why he felt it was time to end HBO’s juggernaut series. With its third season in seven years, “Euphoria” concluded a thrilling, provocative and tumultuous run with a cast of the defining young actors of the 2020s: Zendaya, who won two Emmys for her portrayal of Rue, Sydney Sweeney, Jacob Elordi, Hunter Schafer and more. In this wide-ranging conversation, Levinson, himself a former addict, described staying true to his vision, his approach to shooting sensitive subject matter and the limits of empathy.

People in this episode

Hosts: Joe, Jon

Guest: Sam Levinson

Topics covered

• Euphoria
• television series
• addiction
• creative vision
• young actors
• HBO

Keywords

• Euphoria
• Sam Levinson
• HBO
• addiction
• Zendaya
• television
• series finale

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: HBO

Books & works: Euphoria

More episodes of Popcast

• How Slayyyter Became 2026’s Breakout Pop Star · June 12, 2026 · 1h 1m
• M.I.A. on MAGA, the Kid Cudi Tour & Bipartisan Cancellation · June 5, 2026 · 1h 16m
• Olivia Rodrigo Interview! New Album Details, Babydoll Dresses & Speaking Out Politically · May 29, 2026 · 1h 28m
• Breaking Down Drake's 3 New Albums (LIVE! Reactions) · May 18, 2026 · 1h 28m
• Cannonball: Debating Our ‘30 Greatest Songwriters’ List · May 7, 2026 · 1h 3m
• The Taylor Swift Interview: Behind the Scenes · May 1, 2026 · 33 min