Euphoria Showrunner Unveils Fez's Original Season 3 Arc Before Angus Cloud's Tragic Death
In a revealing interview, Euphoria creator Sam Levinson has disclosed that Angus Cloud's character Fezco was originally planned to serve as the 'backbone' of the show's highly anticipated third season. This storyline was crafted before the actor's untimely death in July 2023, which shocked fans and the entertainment industry alike.
Angus Cloud's Rise to Stardom and Personal Struggles
Angus Cloud, who portrayed the beloved drug dealer Fez on the HBO series, quickly became a fan favorite due to his authentic and compelling performance. With no prior acting experience, he was scouted on the street and brought a unique charm to the role, endearing himself to audiences worldwide. However, behind the scenes, Cloud was grappling with significant mental health and addiction issues, which Levinson actively sought to support him through.
Sam Levinson's Intentional Storyline to Aid Recovery
Speaking to the New York Times ahead of the new season, Levinson explained that he wrote an early draft of season 3 with Fez as a central figure, hoping it would motivate Cloud to stay clean. 'Angus was the backbone of that season,' Levinson stated. 'I used to even talk to him about it because I wanted him to stay clean. So I would invite him over and I’d tell him what the plans were for the character.'
The planned arc involved Fez emerging from a prison sentence, with Levinson encouraging Cloud to get in shape for the role. 'Look, he’s been in prison for a few years, so you’ve got to get that yoked prison body,' he recalled telling Cloud, aiming to give the actor a tangible goal to focus on.
Fez's Fate Changed Multiple Times to Support Angus Cloud
Levinson also shared that he altered Fez's fate on the show twice to help Cloud maintain hope. Initially, Fez was slated to die in season 1, and again in an earlier version of season 2's finale during a police shootout that killed Ashtray. However, after seeing Cloud's devastated reaction to the news, Levinson reconsidered. 'I wanted him to have something to hold onto, a tangible goal for the future,' he explained, emphasizing his desire to keep Cloud engaged and positive.
How Fez Will Be Honored in Season 3
Despite Cloud's passing, his character Fez will remain alive in the Euphoria universe. In season 3, it is revealed through a brief scene with Rue and Lexi that Fez has been sentenced to 30 years in prison. Levinson told Variety that Fez will be featured in phone call scenes, as a way to honor Cloud's memory. 'I thought if I couldn’t keep him alive in life, then maybe within this show that I can control I could keep him alive there. The whole thing was a way to honour him.'
This approach ensures that Cloud's legacy continues on the show, providing a poignant tribute to the actor's impact and the deep bond formed during production.
