Full Breakdown
Sharon Stone Urges HBO’s “Euphoria” as Required Viewing for High Schools and Parents
6/5/2026, 10:38:46 PM
Core Event: Stone’s Call for Mandatory High-School Screening
During a Variety “Actors on Actors” interview with Keke Palmer on May 31, after the series finale of HBO’s teen drama *Euphoria*, Oscar-nominee Sharon Stone praised the series as the best television drama she has seen and argued it should be required viewing for both high-school students and their parents.
Background & Context: Series Profile and Creator Intent
*Euphoria* debuted in 2019, follows teenage drug addict Rue Bennett (Zendaya), and is noted for explicit depictions of drug use, sexuality, and mental-health issues. Creator Sam Levinson has said the series is not intended for viewers under 17, but it is meant to spark conversations between teens and adults. Season 3, featuring Stone as Hollywood executive Patty Lance, aired its finale on May 31 and is now streaming on HBO Max.
Key Figures
- Sharon Stone – Actress, cast as Patty Lance in season 3.
- Sam Levinson – Creator, writer, director of *Euphoria*.
- Zendaya – Lead actress (Rue Bennett).
- Keke Palmer – Interview host.
- HBO – Producer and distributor.
Why It Matters
Stone argues that the series could serve as a curriculum supplement, exposing students and parents to realistic portrayals of substance abuse and sexual health. If adopted, schools could use it to launch guided discussions and improve parental awareness of teen experiences.
Official Statements & Responses
Stone highlighted her personal connection to the show’s themes, referencing her brother’s involvement in drug-related crime and emphasizing that parents need to watch the series to understand the realities teens face today. Levinson reiterated that the series is designed to provoke dialogue, even when adolescents view it on their own. Zendaya said that parental discussion turns the content into a constructive conversation rather than a purely shocking experience.
Criticism & Opposition
Levinson’s admission that the show is unsuitable for viewers under 17 underscores concerns about explicit content. Palmer noted that some viewers dismiss the series as “too much sex,” suggesting a focus on surface elements rather than its broader social commentary.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Total Recall star said: “I think it’s the greatest show on television.” — Sharon Stone, Actress
- “Euphoria is so relevant. I believe it should be shown in every high school, and I think all the parents should have to see it. As a mom, I love it.” — Sharon Stone
- “I don’t think this is a show for people under 17, but …” — Sam Levinson, Creator
- “But if your parent wants to have a conversation about it, that’s good.” — Zendaya, Actress
What’s Next
HBO has not announced any formal educational partnerships for *Euphoria*. The series continues to be available for streaming on HBO Max, allowing schools or families to access it if they choose.
