HBO’s New Teen Drama “Euphoria” Causing Controversy for Explicit Content

HBOs new teen drama, “Euphoria”,  has caused controversy for it’s explicit sexual content, violence and depiction of extreme drug usage. In one episode there were no fewer than 30 penises on show. In the pilot episode there is the rape of a 17 year old trans girl, and a teen sex scene involving choking. The show is described as  the most unflinching  and explicit take on modern American adolescence to be seen on TV.

The show’s creator Sam Levinson, 34, son of director Barry Levinson, says the show is based on his own experiences growing up and dealing with drug addiction.

HBO has been trying to make a name for itself creating edgy content, that pushes back the barriers. However, for many parents this will be seen as a step too far as Parents Television Council president Tim Winter argues that the series “appears to be overtly, intentionally marketing extremely graphic adult content — sex, violence, profanity and drug use — to teens and preteens.”

Reportedly one actor, Brian “Astro” Bradley, 22, a former X-factor contestant, left during the filming, as he was reportedly unhappy with changes to the script in the pilot, which would see him in an intense sex scene. Furthermore it’s suggested he was unhappy with his character exploring homosexuality in future episodes.

Read More: Hollywood Reporter