Since premiering on HBO in 2019, Sam Levinson’s “Euphoria” has attracted almost as much attention for its chaotic production process as its outlandish plotlines and star-studded cast. Reports have circulated about the show’s lengthy shoots and alleged mistreatment of actors, with many voices speculating that Levinson’s complete creative control and decision to direct most episodes himself has needlessly slowed the process down. But “Euphoria” Emmy winner Colman Domingo thinks those rumors are overblown.
In a new interview with The Independent to promote his role in the Netflix Civil Rights drama “Rustin,” Domingo was asked if “Euphoria” is an abnormally difficult set on which to work. He disagreed with that framing, saying that long hours and difficult shoots are a standard part of any actor’s job.
“No,” Domingo said. “Not one bit. I’m not gonna invalidate [anyone’s] experience. But working in television is long hours. Sometimes you work up to 14 hours a day. And then you have to go home and prep. You have to really live and work in a very methodical way. A lot of young actors may not be up for the task, or have that same work ethic.”
Domingo has appeared in eight episodes of “Euphoria” as recovering drug addict Ali Muhammad, winning a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2022. He went on to say that he viewed the anonymous complaints about the “Euphoria” set as unprofessional.
“I’ve been in this business for 32 years,” he said. “I know what hard work is. So when I heard those ‘reports’ I thought, ‘Where is this coming from? That’s just a normal work day’. Be a professional.”
“Euphoria” is not the only Sam Levinson project that was embattled by rumors of a chaotic set, as “The Idol” faced similar charges during its lengthy reshoots. But Domingo defended his longtime collaborator, saying that Levinson is highly supportive of his actors.
“There’s no one that’s going to mistreat you on the set of ‘Euphoria,’” he said. “Sam Levinson is joyful, and collaborative, and could not be a bigger advocate for his actors.”
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