Why Did Bishop Betray Alamo in the Euphoria Finale Before His Death?
Viewers were left baffled by Bishop’s betrayal of Alamo in the series finale of Euphoria.
In the episode that aired on Sunday, May 31, Ali (Colman Domingo) entered the Silver Slipper to seek revenge for Rue’s (Zendaya) death. Holding Alamo (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje) at gunpoint, the two agreed to a showdown reminiscent of classic Westerns. However, when Alamo attempted to shoot at Ali, the gun misfired.
It was later revealed that Bishop (Darrell Britt-Gibson), Alamo’s associate, had secretly unloaded the gun to ensure it had no bullets. This revelation led to Ali sparing Bishop, leaving many viewers in a state of confusion.
Some fans speculated that Bishop’s chat with Maddy (Alexa Demie) inspired his change of heart. Others pointed to an earlier conversation between Bishop and Rue about snakes as a possible foreshadowing that Bishop was actually a deceptive character waiting for the right moment to betray Alamo.
Theories even emerged suggesting that Rue wasn’t the only one working with the DEA; perhaps Bishop was also gathering information for them.
Akinnuoye-Agbaje, 58, shared his perspective on the dynamics off-screen with Variety, stating, “This is just my conjecture, but I think when you’re in a position of power like Alamo, there are always people around you who desire the top spot.”
The actor viewed Bishop’s betrayal as a maneuver for power.
“Bishop would be one of those guys. Kidd [Asante Blackk] had a chance to shoot Ali as well, but Bishop advises him against it. So it’s not just Bishop,” he noted. “Kidd doesn’t support Alamo as a leader.”
While contemplating future developments, Akinnuoye-Agbaje hinted at a potential “changing of the guards,” commenting, “Everything appears to be falling apart, and they’ve recognized this as the moment to seize control with Bishop.”
He added: “Alamo could be somewhat dismissive toward Bishop. He belittles him, mocking his lack of manners and the monotone way he speaks. He treats him as an idiot, despite knowing his usefulness.”
Akinnuoye-Agbaje also dismissed any notions that Bishop might be a secret hero.
“I don’t believe Alamo appreciates that, among all his henchmen, Bishop seems to take pleasure in killing,” he observed. “There’s something extremely psychopathic about him.”
Ultimately, Bishop’s choice was just a “power move,” with Akinnuoye-Agbaje concluding, “Bishop understands this is the moment to act. Maddy is present, and I believe he has designs on her as well. This may be the first time we’ve witnessed Bishop show any favor towards a woman. He’s charting his own course.”
Euphoria is currently available for streaming on HBO Max.
