The segment begins with a CNN anchor introducing the topic: “Tonight, we delve into a heated debate surrounding HBO’s controversial series Euphoria and its portrayal of drug use, violence, and explicit content. Critics argue that characters like Fezco and Ashtray glorify criminal behavior, while fans claim the show reflects real-life struggles faced by today’s youth. Joining us are Nancy Grace, legal commentator and former prosecutor; Jo Frost, parenting expert known as ‘Supernanny’; Zendaya, star of Euphoria; and Sam Levinson, creator of the show.”
Nancy Grace’s Opening Remarks
Nancy Grace starts passionately: “Let me just say this—this show is an absolute disgrace. It glamorizes drug dealers like Fezco and even a child criminal like Ashtray! These kids watching think it’s ‘cool’ to sell drugs or get involved in violent crime because these characters are portrayed as sympathetic or heroic. And don’t even get me started on all the nudity and profanity—it’s completely inappropriate for teenagers!”
Jo Frost Weighs In
Jo Frost nods in agreement but takes a more measured tone: “I understand that Euphoria aims to depict the harsh realities some young people face today. However, I worry about the lack of balance in showing consequences for these actions. When children see Fezco helping Rue or Ashtray being resourceful despite his age, they might overlook the fact that these behaviors are illegal and dangerous. As parents, we need to guide our children away from idolizing such characters.”
Zendaya Responds Defensively
Zendaya interjects sharply: “With all due respect, Nancy—and Jo—I think you’re missing the point entirely. Euphoria isn’t about glorifying anything; it’s about telling stories that reflect what many young people actually go through. Not everyone grows up in a perfect suburban bubble where everything is sunshine and rainbows.”
She continues with visible frustration: “Fezco is not some cartoon villain—he’s a complex character who cares deeply about Rue’s sobriety. And Ashtray? He’s a kid who was abandoned by his family! If you can’t see the humanity in them, maybe you’re just not paying attention.”
Sam Levinson Adds His Perspective
Sam Levinson jumps in to support Zendaya: “Exactly! The show isn’t supposed to be comfortable or easy to watch—it’s supposed to start conversations about addiction, trauma, mental health, and yes, even bad decisions. If kids are watching this show without parental guidance or context, then maybe that’s an issue with parenting—not with our storytelling.”
Nancy Grace Criticizes Explicit Content
Nancy Grace fires back: “Oh please! Conversations? What kind of conversation does constant nudity spark? Or teenagers swearing every other word? My teenage years weren’t anything like this—this isn’t real life! You’re giving kids ideas that they should be doing drugs or engaging in promiscuous behavior because you make it look glamorous!”
She adds pointedly: “If this were real life like you claim it is, my own children would be out there doing God-knows-what after watching your so-called ‘art.’ But they’re not—because I raised them right!”
Zendaya Loses Her Cool
At this point, Zendaya visibly loses her patience: “You know what? That’s such bulls*!” she exclaims angrily.
The live feed quickly cuts away from Zendaya mid-sentence.
Nancy Grace’s Reaction After Feed Cut
Nancy Grace looks directly into the camera with an air of triumph: “Well folks, there you have it—a prime example of what happens when someone can’t handle criticism. Maybe if Zendaya had better role models growing up—or better parents—she wouldn’t be promoting this trash to our children today.”
She pauses before concluding: “I apologize to my viewers for her language tonight. Let’s remember that we have a responsibility as adults to protect our kids from harmful influences—and shows like Euphoria are exactly that.”
Jo Frost Attempts Diplomacy
Jo Frost tries to salvage the discussion: “I think emotions are running high here because we all care deeply about young people’s well-being. While I don’t agree with everything Nancy said just now—I do believe there needs to be more accountability when creating content aimed at impressionable audiences.”
Closing Remarks by CNN Anchor
The anchor wraps up the segment diplomatically: “Clearly this is a polarizing issue with strong opinions on both sides. Whether you view Euphoria as art imitating life or as harmful entertainment for teens—it has certainly sparked important conversations about parenting and media influence today.”
The program ends with split-screen shots of Nancy Grace looking smugly satisfied while Jo Frost appears thoughtful.
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