Premiered: January 9, 2022

On: HBO

Starring: Zendaya, Maude Apatow, Angus Cloud, Eric Dane, Alexa Demie, Jacob Elordi, Barbie Ferreira, Nika King, Storm Reid, Hunter Schafer, Algee Smith, Sydney Sweeney, Colman Domingo, Javon Walton, Austin Abrams, Alanna Ubach, Paula Marshall, Zak Steiner, Tyler Chase, Sophia Rose Wilson, Nick Blood, Martha Kelly, Minka Kelly, Chloe Cherry & Dominic Fike

After winning Zendaya an Emmy Award for the first season, Euphoria comes back just as strong with its shocking topics and entertaining drama.

Rue (Zendaya) starts doing drugs with Elliot (Dominic Fike) without Jules (Hunter Schafer) knowing and gets mixed up with ruthless drug dealer Laurie (Martha Kelly). Nate (Jacob Elordi) and Cassie (Sydney Sweeney) have a secret relationship. Lexi (Maude Apatow) writes a play about her friends and family.

Zendaya once again gives an awards-worthy performance, but it’s Sweeney who surprises as Cassie verges on a mental breakdown throughout the season. Both actresses have memorable moments that won’t be easily forgotten.

The slow disappearance of Kat (Barbie Ferreira) throughout the season is odd, but the rest of the plot is insane yet strong – but not strong enough for Kat’s disappearance to go unnoticed.

Final say: A strong high. ★★★★☆