The acclaimed composer behind HBO's hit series Euphoria has made a dramatic exit, pulling his music from the show's upcoming season and citing poor treatment from those involved.
Labrinth, whose real name is Timothy Lee McKenzie, took to social media to explain his decision just before the premiere of the series' third installment. In a since-deleted Instagram Story, he wrote, "People will comfortably lie in this industry and still call themselves honest people. So no cap I decided to remove whatever music I had in it. I spoke to HBO as far as I know we are cool."
"I left because, last truth, when I work for someone, their vision is paramount to me. But I don’t let people treat me like s--t."
The 37-year-old artist, whose orchestral sound has become synonymous with Euphoria since its first season, has previously expressed frustration with the industry. In March, he posted a scathing message on Instagram stating, "I’m done with this industry. F--k Columbia. Double f--k Euphoria. I’m out. Thank you and good night x." This earlier rant also targeted his record label, Columbia Records.
Labrinth's departure marks a significant shift for the series, as his songs "All For Us," "Still Don’t Know My Name," and "I’m Tired" have been integral to the show's atmospheric tone. He won an Emmy in 2020 for his work on Euphoria.
Interestingly, Labrinth had previously expressed enthusiasm about returning for season three, which also features Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer. In a statement to Variety last July, he said, "Another chapter in the Euphoria universe! So great to join Hans, one of my heroes in film score, and bring some new magic to this new season."
Zimmer himself praised Labrinth, calling him a "visionary" and noting that "Labrinth’s music has shaped the show’s identity."
The exact nature of the conflict remains unclear, as Labrinth has not specified what led to his decision. However, his abrupt withdrawal highlights ongoing tensions behind the scenes of one of television's most visually and musically distinctive series.
Euphoria season three premiered on April 12, featuring returning stars Zendaya, Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, and Alexa Demie—but now without the musical signature that helped define its previous seasons.