HBO's Euphoria killed off the character Nate Jacobs, played by Jacob Elordi, in the penultimate episode of Season 3 [1].
The death of a central antagonist marks a significant shift in the series' narrative trajectory as the show approaches its season finale. It resolves long-standing tensions involving the character's volatile relationships, and the escalating conflict surrounding drugs and money [2].
The events occurred in Episode 7, titled "Rise and Shine" or "Judge Not," which aired on May 24, 2026 [3]. This episode serves as the penultimate installment of an eight-episode season [4].
"Yes, Nate (Jacob Elordi) dies in Euphoria Season 3 Episode 7 'Rise and Shine'," Decider staff said [5]. Other reports described the scene as a "grisly end" for the character [6]. The episode opened with a line from the character Rue, who said, "If there's a beginning, there must be an end" [7].
While the episode focused on the conclusion of Nate's arc, it also provided significant development for another character. The episode used a flashback to give Ali, played by Colman Domingo, a more detailed personal history [2]. This expansion of Ali's backstory provides context for his role within the series' broader social, and emotional landscape [2].
The plot progression in this episode is the result of an intensifying war over financial and personal disputes [2]. By removing Nate from the equation, the series clears the path for the final resolution of the season's primary conflicts in the upcoming finale.
“"If there's a beginning, there must be an end," Rue said to open the penultimate episode.”
The removal of Nate Jacobs, a primary catalyst for conflict throughout the series, suggests that the show is moving toward a definitive resolution of its central tensions. By pairing a major character death with the deepening of Ali's backstory, the production is balancing the closing of old narrative loops with the establishment of new emotional stakes before the season concludes.
