HBO Max viewers are reacting sharply to a controversial scene featuring Sydney Sweeney in the premiere of Euphoria's latest season. The episode, which marks the series' return after a four-year hiatus, has drawn intense criticism for its depiction of the character Cassie Howard.
In the scene, Sweeney's character is shown creating adult content for the platform OnlyFans. Dressed in a dog costume, Cassie performs sexualized gestures before being discovered by Nate, played by Jacob Elordi. The confrontation ends with Nate insulting the character, calling her a 'prostitute' while simultaneously offering her money.
Social media backlash
Social media platforms are flooded with criticism regarding the hypersexualization of Sweeney and the apparent degradation of her character. Many viewers expressed discomfort with the scene's focus on nudity and sexualized imagery.
"Sydney Sweeney in season 3 is literally being humiliated," one Twitter user wrote, arguing that the character's reduction to such scenes prevents any meaningful performance or awards potential. Another user questioned the actress's agency, asking, "Can someone tell Sydney Sweeney that she can say NO to a scene? It really makes me uncomfortable seeing her ass on the whole screen out of nowhere."
Critics also pointed to a pattern of sexualized content within the season. A trailer for the series previously showed the character in a photoshoot dressed as a baby, adding to the growing outcry regarding the show's direction.
Some commenters described the scene as a "ritual of humiliation," suggesting the writing focuses more on shock value than character development. The backlash highlights a growing tension between the show's provocative aesthetic and the audience's perception of its female leads.
