Eric Dane reflected on one of his final performances before his death, opening up about filming a chaotic “drunk” wedding scene for “Euphoria” Season 3 while his health was already in decline.
The late actor completed his scenes for the HBO drama ahead of its April release, with creator Sam Levinson later revealing that production was carefully adjusted to accommodate Dane’s worsening condition due to ALS.
His comments have resurfaced at a tense moment for the series, as Season 3 continues to face growing criticism from viewers, some of whom are now openly calling for the show to be canceled.
Dane spoke candidly about one of his final scenes before his death, revealing how he approached the messy wedding scene.
“I had a wedding sequence I had to shoot, the reception. And it’s written that I’m wasted, sloshed, drunk for this entire reception. And I was like, people are going to think I’m brilliant,” the actor said. “Because I already sound like I’m drunk. I don’t need to act.”
That scene finally aired on April 26 in Episode 3, titled “The Ballad of Paladin,” giving fans full context for the moment Dane had teased months earlier. His character appeared visibly intoxicated, delivering a rambling speech during the reception.
‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Honors Dane, Angus Cloud
“Euphoria” Season 3 opened with a somber tribute, honoring several cast and crew members who died before the new season premiered.
During the April 12 debut, the show featured a title card with a photo of Eric Dane alongside the message, “In remembrance of Eric Dane,” per Variety. The episode also paid tribute to Angus Cloud and producer Kevin Turen, closing with an “In Memoriam” screen listing their names.
Cloud died in July 2023 at 25 from an accidental drug overdose, while Dane passed away in February at 53 following a battle with ALS.
Levinson Worked Out A Way To Feature Eric Dane
Levinson found a way to ensure Dane still appeared in “Euphoria” Season 3 despite his declining health. While Cloud was unable to film before his death, Dane managed to complete his scenes after privately revealing his diagnosis to the director ahead of production.
“Eric called me before we started shooting and told me that he had been diagnosed with ALS,” Levinson shared in an interview with ExtraTV. “We had a lot of conversations about just life and what that meant. I loved him very deeply, and I said, ‘Eric, whatever shape you show up in, we’re gonna make it work.’”
Levinson said the team ultimately adjusted filming to accommodate the actor, shooting his scenes in a single day.
Levinson Pays Tribute To Eric Dane After Death
“Euphoria” paid tribute to Dane following his death, with both the show’s creator and network honoring his legacy. Levinson shared a heartfelt statement, reflecting on both Dane’s work and their personal bond.
“I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift,” Levinson said. “Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing.”
The official HBO and HBO Max “Euphoria” accounts also issued a joint tribute, praising the late actor’s talent and contribution to the series.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing. He was incredibly talented, and HBO was fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of ‘Euphoria,’” the statement read. “Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
‘Euphoria’ Backlash Grows Over Controversial Scenes
“Euphoria” Season 3 is already facing heavy backlash, with some viewers calling for the show to be scrapped just a few episodes into its run.
Much of the criticism has centered on controversial plot choices, including a storyline involving Cassie, played by Sydney Sweeney, who turns to OnlyFans to fund her lavish wedding to Nate. One scene in particular sparked outrage, showing the character dressed as a dog while posing provocatively for social media.
Critics have also accused Levinson of “humiliating” Cassie and leaning too heavily into sexualized storytelling.
Still, not everyone agrees. Some fans have defended the series, arguing that its provocative tone has always been part of its identity.
