Sam Levinson’s Most Powerful Ally Is Over It

As a dedicated cinephile who has followed the twists and turns of Hollywood’s power dynamics for years, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness as I reflect on the tumultuous relationship between Sam Levinson and Zendaya. Their creative partnership once seemed unstoppable, producing groundbreaking television with “Euphoria” and pushing boundaries with “Malcolm & Marie.” But like a beautifully crafted narrative gone awry, their bond began to fray with the announcement of “The Idol.”


Despite our collective eagerness to move on from “The Idol” in 2023, this Sam Levinson series featuring a morally questionable cult leader, Tedros, and his pop-star companion, has managed to maintain its influence on pop culture. One reason for this prolonged relevance? An alleged rift between Levinson and Zendaya, the star of “Euphoria.” According to recent reports in The Hollywood Reporter, tension arose between the two during the production of “The Idol,” causing significant delays in the release of “Euphoria’s” third season. A source shared that their once strong bond had deteriorated and attempts to mend it were unsuccessful. Some sympathized with Levinson, while another source close to Zendaya placed blame on her shoulders. The situation became a contentious topic, but the true cause of the dispute remains unclear.

Zendaya and Levinson were once close collaborators, having achieved Emmy success together on “Euphoria” and co-produced and starred in “Malcolm & Marie.” However, tensions reportedly arose when Levinson’s intense work style for “The Idol” caused delays to “Euphoria,” which was left on hold. Zendaya voiced her concerns to HBO executives about prioritizing “The Idol” instead of resolving issues with “Euphoria.”

Read More

2024-07-23 22:55