Euphoria Star Chloe Cherry Explains Filming of Controversial Drug Balloon Scene
Euphoria actress Chloe Cherry has provided detailed insights into how the divisive drug balloon scene with Zendaya was filmed for the show's third season. The scene, which aired in episode 1, features characters Faye and Rue swallowing plastic balloons filled with fentanyl to smuggle them into the United States, leaving many viewers disgusted.
Director's Intent to Gross Out Viewers
In an interview with Decider, Cherry revealed that Euphoria creator Sam Levinson specifically wanted the scene to be repulsive to audiences. She quoted Levinson saying, "I really, really, really need to see in the scene that it is absolutely disgusting to swallow these fentanyl balloons. Like, I need it to be just awful. I need people to just see that it is so disgusting and hard and horrible to do this." Cherry expressed hope that viewers could perceive this intended disgust through her performance.
What the Balloons Were Actually Filled With
Despite the graphic nature of the scene, Cherry clarified that the balloons contained fake substances for filming purposes. She admitted, "So yes, it is disgusting to swallow bags, balloons filled with fentanyl, even if the fentanyl is fake because we're on a set. It is very gross." In a separate conversation with TV Insider, she disclosed additional filming details, mentioning that she used real KY Jelly to lubricate her throat and that the balloons were tied with materials that merely resembled powder.
Cherry's Approach to the Scene
Cherry described the filming process as "really fun" despite its challenging nature. She explained her method acting approach, stating, "I guess I just kind of imagined in my mind I was like, 'What if I was really doing this? Like, what if I was actually doing this and I had to do it? How would I feel about it?' I just think I would be disgusted." This mental preparation helped her convey the required emotions authentically on screen.
Context Within Euphoria Season 3
The balloon scene was part of a series of shocking moments in Euphoria season 3 episode 1, which also included Faye's interaction with a dog and Cassie dressing as a dog, both of which sparked strong reactions from fans. Cherry's revelations add depth to understanding the production behind these controversial sequences, highlighting the show's commitment to realistic and impactful storytelling.
