Zendaya continues to receive recognition for her work in “Euphoria.”
In a recent conversation between Bradley Cooper and the show’s creator, Sam Levinson, the actress was compared to two Hollywood icons, including Marlon Brando, and described as both “exceptional” and “so incredible.”
Zendaya starred as Rue in the HBO series and won two Emmy Awards for her performance.
After three seasons of captivating audiences, “Euphoria” has come to an end, with Zendaya once again earning the kind of praise that followed earlier seasons of the show.
In a new Interview Magazine conversation between creator Levinson and Cooper, the actress received one of the strongest compliments of her career, as the “A Star Is Born” actor compared her to Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando.
Both stars remain among Hollywood’s most celebrated names, with Brando widely remembered for helping popularize method acting on screen.
“I just have to say, Zendaya, I don’t think I’ve come across an actor that’s floored me like that. I mean, it’s like Elizabeth Taylor meets Marlon Brando,” Cooper told Levinson during the sit-down.
Sam Levinson Called The Actress ‘Exceptional’
Outside “Euphoria,” Levinson and Zendaya also worked together on “Malcolm & Marie,” which was filmed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cooper also praised her performance in the romantic drama film, calling her “so incredible.”
The compliment prompted Levinson to explain why audiences are often drawn to the characters she plays.
“She’s exceptional. And you root for her. She has this innate likability that allows you as a writer to push the boundaries of what she’s doing, and you still care for her,” Levinson said.
Zendaya’s performance in “Malcolm & Marie” earned her a Best Actress nomination at the 26th Critics’ Choice Awards.
“She’s from another era and has such a great work ethic,” Levinson added.
Levinson Reflected On Zendaya’s Rue Performance
Levinson’s comments echoed what he has previously said about his main star’s performance as Rue in “Euphoria.”
“Zendaya’s performance has been so wonderful and layered over the course of these seasons,” the series director said during a post-show look reported by E! News.
The actress won two Emmy Awards for her role as Rue and earned several other nominations, further cementing the impact of her performance.
“We fell in love with this character, this girl who’s flawed, f–ked up, and has a good heart and is trying to do right, at least sometimes,” Levinson added. “It’s a blessing to work with talented people and people that you love.”
Sam Levinson Explained Euphoria’s Core Message
Levinson also reflected on the creative approach behind “Euphoria” and the themes that shaped the series.
“In the end, I wanted to tell an honest story about addiction,” he shared. “I also wanted to tell a story about grief and the emotional turmoil that it can create.”
He then pointed to the broader real-life issue at the center of the show and referenced his own recovery journey.
“This is a real show about a real problem that we have in this country, and that’s addiction,” Levinson said. “People relapse, they f–k up, they’re not ready to get clean, and they weren’t dying like they are now with the influx of fentanyl into this country. I can say with absolute certainty that if I was going through what I went through when I was younger, now I wouldn’t be here either.”
Zendaya Gives An Emotional Goodbye To ‘Euphoria’
As the series came to an end, Zendaya shared an emotional goodbye message with the “Euphoria” cast and crew in a behind-the-scenes look at the episode.
“I just want to say thank you,” the actress said while appearing to hold back tears. “I’m incredibly grateful for every single one of you.”
She also reflected on how much her life has changed since she first joined the series and thanked the people who had been part of that journey with her.
“Many of you have been here from the beginning and watched me grow up. It’s been a pleasure and an honor. Thank you so much,” she concluded.
