Actor Nika King says 'Euphoria' tackles drug abuse among teens head-on and hopes it inspires them to find the light
HBO's teen drama series 'Euphoria', slated to premiere on June 16, revolves around a group of high school students as they navigate through drugs, sex, identity, trauma, social media, love, and friendship. Starring Zendaya, the trailer shows her character Rue to be a troubled, drug-addicted high school student. Nika King, who has previously appeared in shows like 'Hannah Montana' and 'Two Broke Girls', will play the role of Leslie on the show, Rue and Gia's (Storm Reid) tough, determined mother.
The series, set to premiere on June 16, dropped its teaser in March, which showed high school students in multiple, snappy shots. Drug abuse is one of the central themes in the show. Speaking exclusively to MEA WorldWide (MEAWW), King shared that she's glad the show is tackling the topic of drug abuse head on. "Drug abuse as a whole is a very difficult topic and I’m glad this show is tackling it head-on. It's nothing to be ashamed of and I hope people are inspired by the show to find the light within their own lives," the comedian and actor said.
The Israeli show on which 'Euphoria' is based on revolves around the infamous Ra'anan Levy murder, while the HBO show focuses on Zendaya's character. Commenting on this, King said: "I think Zendaya's character has a story to tell and fans are going on a journey with her. Even though it's a remake, Euphoria is its own reality of what a drug-addicted teenager faces on a daily basis." King added that the show sheds light on not just problems faced by teenagers, but pays equal attention to parents as well. "The parents in the show are extremely complex and well written. It really is a complete look at the nucleus of a family fighting to stay above ground," she said.
'Euphoria' is based on the Israeli series of the same name created by Ron Leshem, Daphna Levin, and Tmira Yardeni — who also serve as executive producers of the show. Also starring on the drama series are Storm Reid, Maude Apatow, Brian "Astro" Bradley, Eric Dane, Angus Cloud, Alexa Demie, and Jacob Elordi. Drake is also a producer on the show, along with a few others.
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