Will Eric Dane Return in ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Following His Character’s Death? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Eric Dane’s participation in Euphoria’s third and final season was discussed prior to his passing at the age of 53.

Dane made his debut on the HBO series as Cal Jacobs, the father of Jacob Elordi’s Nate Jacobs, when it premiered in 2019. He continued to play the character in season 2, but uncertainty loomed over the future of all cast members after various production delays.

Before filming for season 3 began, Dane revealed his ALS diagnosis and clarified his status regarding the show.

“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he stated in an April 2025 announcement. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter. I feel fortunate that I can continue working and am looking forward to returning to [the] set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and me privacy during this time.”

Before his death in February 2026, Dane also took on roles in Countdown, Kabul, and an episode of Brilliant Minds. His family shared that he was “surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters” in his final days.

Continue reading for all that was shared about Dane’s return to Euphoria before his passing:

Is ‘Euphoria’ Coming Back to HBO for Season 3?

When Euphoria launched in 2019, audiences tuned in to follow troubled high schooler Rue (Zendaya) on her journey to sobriety. Alongside Zendaya, the series featured Hunter Schafer, Alexa Demie, Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, Maude Apatow, and Colman Domingo. After its premiere, Euphoria was swiftly renewed for a second season, but it took nearly three years for new episodes to be released.

Season 3 was initially scheduled to premiere on HBO in 2025, but faced multiple challenges, including creator Sam Levinson’s engagement with his short-lived series The Idol. The dual strikes by WGA and SAG-AFTRA in late 2023 further delayed the process.

What Did Eric Dane Say About Returning for the Final Season of ‘Euphoria’?

Like his onscreen son, played by Jacob Elordi, Eric Dane expressed optimism about his return.

“I’m hopeful that it’s going to come back,” Dane shared during a June 2024 episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna. “There’s a real demand for that show out there, and it’s just too good to let go of.”

Dane previously hinted at an unexpected arc for his character, telling Variety in 2022, “There’s going to be redemption. I mean, that’s the path he’s on [after being arrested]. I can’t envision Cal’s life from solitary confinement. It’s challenging to integrate Cal into the storyline when he’s incarcerated.”

Was Eric Dane’s Participation in ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Confirmed?

In the same statement where he announced his ALS diagnosis, Eric Dane mentioned filming for Euphoria’s final season. He later discussed his determination to continue working despite the difficult health challenges.

“I’m not going to surrender my purpose to some disease. I just can’t do that,” he stated in a December 2025 panel discussion as part of I AM ALS. “I truly have no reason to be in good spirits on any given day. I think no one would blame me if I retreated to my bedroom, crawled under the sheets, and spent the next two weeks crying. I was a bit surprised to realize that I wasn’t made that way, because I thought for sure that would be my reality.”

When Does ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Debut?

Euphoria is set to return for its third and final season on April 12 — two months following Eric Dane’s passing at age 53. The series is anticipated to pay tribute to Dane and his co-star Angus Cloud, who tragically passed away at age 25 in July 2023 due to an accidental overdose.

How Has the ‘Euphoria’ Team Honored Eric Dane?

Following Eric Dane’s passing, an HBO spokesperson expressed their condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s death. He was exceptionally talented, and HBO was fortunate to have collaborated with him on three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”

Creator Sam Levinson issued his own heartfelt message, saying, “I’m devastated by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Working with him was a privilege. Being his friend was a blessing. Our prayers are with Eric’s family. May his memory be a blessing.”