'Euphoria' Season 3 sets new record for Rotten Tomatoes ratings amid mixed reviews from critics

Euphoria Season 3 has received a record-low 56% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes based on early reviews, making it the lowest-rated season in the HBO series' history, significantly below Season 1 (80%) and Season 2 (78%). Critics have largely pointed to changes in narrative direction and character development, particularly the shift beyond high school, as reasons for the decline, arguing it reduces the show’s focus and emotional impact. Issues with pacing and coherence were also noted by reviewers like Graeme Guttmann from ScreenRant. Despite the critical reception, performances, especially Zendaya's as Rue Bennett, remain a strong point. The new season, featuring returning cast members such as Sydney Sweeney, Jacob Elordi, and Hunter Schafer, is set to premiere on April 12.