Why is Barbie Ferreira leaving Euphoria?

We come bearing bad news. Barbie Ferreira will not return for the upcoming third season of the HBO Max original series, Euphoria.

For those who have been following the behind-the-scenes drama of Euphoria closely, this news may not come as too much of a shock. After all, it was a tad fishy that Ferreira’s camera time was reduced significantly in the sophomore season, despite her having a lead role in the first season.

And, before the realization that Kat Hernandez is now a mere side character, it was even more suspicious that Ferreira didn’t show up for the red carpet premiere of season 2 along with the rest of her peers.

Even still, once Ferreira alluded to the fact that there was no beef between her and Sam Levinson, the creator of Euphoria, the matter was left alone, as we believed if something was truly wrong, Ferreira would make it known.

Looks like we’ve should’ve trusted our gut.

So, what’s really going on between Barbie Ferreira and Euphoria? Why did the actress leave? What does her departure mean for the longevity of the HBO Max series? We tell you everything we know so far below.

Why did Barbie Ferreira leave Euphoria?

While we have our theories about what caused Barbie Ferreira to say goodbye to Euphoria, we, unfortunately, don’t know why the 25-year-old star made her decision. All we have to go off of is the somber Instagram story the actress posted when she announced the news.

“After four years of getting to embody the most special and enigmatic character Kat, I’m having to say a very teary goodbye,” Ferreira stated. “I hope many of you could see yourself in her like I did and that she brought you joy to see her journey into the character she is today. I put all my care and love into her and I hope you guys could feel it. Love you Katherine Hernandez.”

Perhaps Barbie Ferreira will dive into specifics at a later date. Perhaps not. Either way, for some fans, saying goodbye to Katherine “Kat” Hernandez could mean saying goodbye to Euphoria, too. Is the HBO Max show in jeopardy?

What’s next for Euphoria?

In a way, Ferreira’s character, Kat, no longer being essential to the story of Euphoria won’t necessarily affect the endgame of the show, as the series mostly revolves around Rue Bennett (Zendaya) and her struggles with addiction.

What’s more, being that Kat broke things off with her boyfriend in the second season and seemingly had little to no plans after high school graduation, it’s safe to say there wasn’t much left of her character to explore, meaning Euphoria will continue to move forward. 

But fans believe that things could’ve been different.

For many, Kat’s character was a beacon of light and inspiration, as she highlighted that plus-sized individuals can be confident in their beauty. She also spoke to the girls who see it as a blessing (and a curse) to be wrapped up in their immaculate fantasy worlds. And, who could forget the way she walked with empowerment after realizing she’s a badass?

Seeing an awkward plus-sized girl blossom into a person who loved herself and her quirks unapologetically is something we don’t often get to see represented in media, which is why fans of Kat are grieving alongside Ferreira.

“Barbie Ferreira is leaving @euphoriahbo, and we simply could not be sadder,” one Twitter account stated. “Actual body diversity in a teen drama, plus a complex storyline about the relationship between sexual empowerment and self-confidence? We’re going to miss Kat so much!”

Hopefully, this won’t be the last time we see Barbie Ferreira. But if it is, we’re glad she gave us the special gift that is Katherine Hernandez.

Stay tuned to Hidden Remote for more Euphoria news and coverage!