Euphoria Cast Feuds Intensify Over Salary Disparities and Political Rifts
As Euphoria season 3 premieres this Sunday, the real-life drama among its cast members appears to overshadow the on-screen plotlines. Reports have emerged detailing escalating tensions, primarily fueled by salary differences and contrasting political views, with Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney at the center of the controversy.
Salary Disparity Sparks Behind-the-Scenes Friction
According to sources cited by the Daily Mail, Zendaya commands a higher salary than Sydney Sweeney for her role in Euphoria, a factor that has reportedly deepened existing rifts. An insider revealed, "Zendaya was definitely making more money than Sydney. Zendaya was the name coming on to the project, and that wasn't easy for Sydney, especially since she's now a bigger name than she once was." This pay gap has exacerbated rumors of a long-running feud between the two stars, with Sydney's on-set demands adding to the strain. The source noted that while most crew members enjoy working with Sydney, some cast members find her requirements challenging.
Multiple Feuds Emerge Among Cast Members
The tension extends beyond Zendaya and Sydney, with reports suggesting a separate rift between Sydney and co-star Alexa Demie. Despite maintaining a friendly facade at the Los Angeles premiere, where they posed with Hunter Schafer and Maude Apatow, insiders claim the two actors avoid each other off-camera. "If there were any issues with anyone, Alexa Demie and Sydney would avoid each other. And people could tell there was no love lost between them; they definitely don't like each other," a source stated. Alexa's comments at a Chateau Marmont after-party, where she praised her bond with Hunter, Maude, and Zendaya while omitting Sydney, further fueled speculation.
Political Differences Amplify the Conflict
Insiders attribute part of the feud to opposing political stances between Zendaya and Sydney. Zendaya is known for her vocal opposition to former President Donald Trump, expressing distress after his 2016 election. In contrast, Sydney's registered Republican affiliation and a controversial American Eagle ad campaign have drawn backlash, with critics linking it to eugenics and white supremacy rhetoric. Sources explained, "It's a difficult position for Zendaya to be in because if she even stands next to Sydney on the red carpet, it can be read as her excusing Sydney's views on Trump and her refusal to apologise for the racist ad." This political divide has reportedly led Zendaya to avoid joint press events with Sydney, heightening rumors of a refusal to collaborate.
Premiere Interactions Fuel Speculation
At the Euphoria season 3 premiere, observers noted minimal interaction between Zendaya and Sydney, with Zendaya briefly greeting Hunter Schafer and creator Sam Levinson before being escorted away. Unlike at promotions for her film The Drama, Zendaya avoided press interviews, adding to the intrigue. The lack of public camaraderie between the stars has intensified discussions about their strained relationship, blending professional and personal conflicts into a media spectacle.
As Euphoria fans await the new season, the off-screen dynamics among the cast continue to captivate public attention, highlighting issues of pay equity, political alignment, and interpersonal conflicts in Hollywood.
