Labrinth Not Involved in Euphoria’s Third Season

US media outlets have confirmed that pop artist Labrinth will not contribute to the upcoming third season of the acclaimed teen drama Euphoria, despite earlier assurances from HBO. The London-based singer and producer previously crafted the series’ signature dramatic and moody musical score, along with tracks like “Formula” and “Never Felt So Alone,” which featured Billie Eilish. His absence comes after a March Instagram post in which he expressed frustration with the show’s producers and the record label Columbia, calling the project “one man’s creepy, sex-obsessed fantasy.”

Creator’s Response and New Musical Direction

Euphoria creator Sam Levinson told Rolling Stone he was “less interested in needle drops” for the new season, prioritizing a musical style that complements the show’s evolving narrative. While he praised Labrinth as a “catalyst for the show’s identity,” he admitted uncertainty about the decision to exclude the artist. Instead of Labrinth, the third season will feature Hans Zimmer, the Oscar-winning composer known for works like Dune and Interstellar.

“He [Labrinth] is an incredible collaborator and someone who really built the foundation of the sound of Euphoria.”

Zimmer, who joined the project as a creative addition, noted that Labrinth had “shaped the show’s identity” and expressed excitement about his role in shaping the new season. Meanwhile, Labrinth’s expletive-laced message concluded with “I’m out. Thank you and good night,” though the reasons behind his decision remain unclear.

Season Three and Critical Reception

The third season of Euphoria debuts this weekend, four years after the previous installment. It follows the main characters as they transition from troubled adolescents to young adults, navigating new challenges. Critics have offered mixed reactions to the latest series, with some suggesting it lacks the cultural resonance of its earlier seasons.

“Euphoria has descended into one man’s creepy, sex-obsessed fantasy.”

The Telegraph‘s Eleanor Halls gave the season two stars, while BBC Culture‘s Caryn James called it “disjointed fan fiction.” However, The Independent’s Nick Hilton praised the show for its “clear-eyed, unflattering portrait of modern America,” awarding it four stars. Despite the critical divide, the series continues to spotlight rising stars like Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, and Jacob Elordi, who recently reunited for its Los Angeles premiere.

Labrinth, who will still perform at the Coachella festival this weekend, remains a key figure in the music world. His departure from Euphoria marks a shift in the show’s sound, as it embraces a more traditional Hollywood cinematic tone to match its mature storyline.