*Article contains “Euphoria” season 1 spoilers* 

More than two years after season 1 premiered, the first episode of season 2 of “Euphoria” became available on HBO Max on Sunday, Jan 9. With its star-studded cast, glittering makeup, outrageous outfits and an innovative soundtrack, the HBO drama quickly became a hit. 

The first season ended with suspense, leaving Zendaya’s character Rue relapsing on drugs after a fight with Hunter Schafer’s character, Jules. The second season was supposed to follow shortly thereafter but was delayed due to COVID. Although two special episodes were released in the meantime, many viewers remained excited to learn what would happen next to Rue, Jules, and the other “Euphoria” characters. 

“I want to see more of Lexi because she was one of the nicer characters and she deserved better,” Senior Julia Perrigault Eng said. “Also, I want to know what happened to Fez and if he’s OK because they left his character on a cliffhanger.” 

The first episode appeared to answer that question, while also setting up new storylines for many of the other characters. However, the plot of “Euphoria” isn’t the only thing that has captured viewers’ attention. The show is known largely for its fashion, especially the looks created by makeup artist Doniella Davy. While all the makeup used is aesthetically pleasing and has served as the inspiration for countless TikToks and Instagram posts, it also serves as a device for storytelling and character development throughout the series. 

Euphoria has also been praised for its diversity and representation. While Schafer and her fictional counterpart Jules are both transwomen, Jules isn’t portrayed as an example of all trans-people, but rather as a funny, artistic young woman. She happens to be trains and experiences the prejudice and challenges which accompany that fact. By emphasizing this but not dwelling on it, the show allows Jules to blossom as a complex character and not just a box-checking stereotype.

Although it may include positive LGBTQ representation, with its graphic portrayals of sex and drug use, Euphoria isn’t a show for the young or immature. Its characters’ constant bad decisions don’t seem to detract from its other elements.

“I loved the styles of each character, such as their makeup and clothing, and also thought the soundtrack was really good,” Perrigault Eng said. “The show definitely had a more aesthetic impact than messaging impact because not all the things they portray in the show are necessarily things we want to copy.”