Zendaya bids farewell to 'Euphoria' and Rue in heartfelt behind-the-scenes message after finale

Zendaya has reflected on the end of her seven-year journey on Euphoria after the HBO drama concluded Rue Bennett’s storyline in the Season 3 finale.

The actress delivered an emotional farewell speech to cast and crew on her final day of filming, footage of which was included in the behind-the-scenes feature that aired after the finale.

The episode confirmed the long-speculated fate of Rue, who died after taking pain medication laced with fentanyl. Zendaya, who won Emmy Awards for her portrayal of the troubled character, addressed the production team as filming wrapped.

Zendaya gets emotional while saying her goodbyes to the cast and production crew of 'Euphoria' Season 3. pic.twitter.com/ePwfhuIhHi

— Zendaya Updates (@Zendaya_Updated) June 1, 2026

“I just want to say thank you,” she said. “I’m incredibly grateful for every single one of you, and many of you have been here from the beginning, and watched me grow up.”

“It’s been such a pleasure and an honor. Thank you so much.”

The behind-the-scenes special also featured tributes from creator, writer and director Sam Levinson, who praised Zendaya’s work throughout the series.

“Zendaya’s performance has been so wonderful and layered over the course of these seasons,” Levinson said. “You know, we fell in love with this character. This girl who’s flawed and f**ked up, but has a good heart. And trying to do right, at least sometimes.”

Cinematographer Marcell Rév described Zendaya’s final day on set as “a very emotional day”, while co-star Hunter Schafer reflected on their long-standing friendship.

“I feel so lucky my first major scene partner ended up being a soulmate,” Schafer said. “Z is somebody that I’m gonna be talking to when I’m old. I love her to the moon and back.”

Levinson also defended Rue’s ending, stating, “The honest ending is people like Rue don’t make it.”