‘Euphoria’ Actor Colman Domingo Shoots Down ‘Toxic’ Work Environment Claims Surrounding The Famed HBO Series: ‘There’s No One That’s Going To Mistreat You On The Set’
‘Euphoria’ Actor Colman Domingo Shoots Down ‘Toxic’ Work Environment Claims Surrounding The Famed HBO Series: ‘There’s No One That’s Going To Mistreat You On The Set’
Contrary to popular belief, some people actually loved working on the set of ‘Euphoria.’
In a new interview, one of the HBO series’ recurring stars, Colman Domingo, addressed the hoopla that accused the show’s creator — Sam Levinson — of upholding a “toxic” workplace.
When asked if he experienced any unfair conditions during the production of ‘Euphoria,’ Colman Domingo said,
“No, not one bit. I’m not gonna invalidate [anyone’s] experience, but working in television is long hours. Sometimes you work up to fourteen hours a day. And then you have to go home and prep. You have to really live and work in a very methodical way.”
He continued, briefly touching on those who protested against the (reported) extensive shoot time and harsh environment:
“A lot of young actors may not be up for the task or have that same work ethic.”
However, although Colman Domingo (seemingly) offered grace to the individuals who faced challenges with the labor that is required for an uber-successful show like ‘Euphoria,’ that didn’t stop him from raising an eyebrow.
The 53-year-old veteran actor expanded,
“I’ve been in this business for thirty-two years. 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.'”
Domingo portrays Ali Muhammad in the hit drama, a recovering drug addict who later serves as a mentor to ‘Euphoria’s main character, Rue (played by Zendaya).
Having worked with Sam Levinson on 2018’s ‘Assassination Nation,’ he spoke of his boss,
“There’s no one that’s going to mistreat you on the set of ‘Euphoria.’ Sam Levinson is joyful, and collaborative, and could not be a bigger advocate for his actors.”
Domingo’s sentiments come over a year after the highly-anticipated premiere of season two, which was last January.
Following the debut, talks swirled that tensions were high between Levinson and a few actors/actresses due to the 38-year-old (allegedly) failing to provide meals to the employees and denying them restroom breaks on (nearly) twenty-hour set days.
Additionally, it was said Levinson had a feud with key cast member Barbie Ferreira — prompting her to walk off the filming premises — and that the number of complaints grew so much that SAG-AFTRA had to pay a visit to make sure all protocols were met.
HBO responded to the rumors surrounding the Emmy-winning series in a statement:
“The well-being of cast and crew on or productions is always a top priority.”
They furthered,
“The production was in full compliance with all safety guidelines and guild protocols. It’s not uncommon for drama series to have complex shoots, and COVID protocols add an additional layer. We maintain an open line of communication with all the guilds, including SAG-AFTRA. There were never any formal inquiries raised.”
Initially reaching the TV screens in 2019, ‘Euphoria’ follows a group of high schoolers in the fictional city of East Highland, California, as they navigate everything from sex and relationships to drugs and mental health.
Season three is scheduled for 2025.
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