Bad to worse is probably the best way to describe the fate of this one character in Euphoria. If you thought Rue Bennett’s (Zendaya) trajectory in the series was bad, think again. We have Cassie Howard, played by Sydney Sweeney, who fell into the pit of her own doing. So here’s a breakdown of the character’s downfall in the show.
Cassie’s betrayal and downfall in Euphoria season 3 know no bounds
What has hurt and frustrated viewers the most in the series is Cassie’s betrayal of her best friend, Maddy (Alexa Demie), throughout the second season. Her people-pleasing behavior actually stems from her traumatic childhood memories, where her father abandoned the family following his drug addiction. The abandonment issues eventually get the best of her, and she turns to Nate Jacobs (Jacob Elordi) after her breakup with McKay.
She couldn’t care less, even if it meant constant lying to Maddy about the whole deal. Her relationship with Nate is quite complex, if you come to think of it. She yearns to be closer to him, and then completely transforms herself into Maddy. From this point onward, her downfall officially begins in the HBO series. And here’s where things get messier.
She not only betrayed Maddy, but she also completely devalued the abuse faced by her ex-best friend by being in a relationship with the very man. Let’s not forget how Nate almost unalived Maddy earlier, but Cassie would still choose herself above everyone. Not to mention, her and Nate’s marriage is a match made in hell. While Maddy told her that it’s just the beginning, it wasn’t simply foreshadowing.
The character literally warns her of the chaos yet to come. The Jacobs approve of her as a daughter-in-law, but Cassie’s relationship is clearly in shambles, especially with Nate’s current financial situation. She abandons him, questions him, and ultimately even makes a fool out of him. While Nate is abused by Naz and his men, she sits shocked, trying to make sense of it all. The moment sets her up for a new career path, which is pretty self-explanatory.
From Heather and Fred to Nate, everyone warns Cassie and condemns her decision. Yet, in one of the most disturbing moments on Euphoria, she dresses up like an animal and then, questionably, as a baby! Right from the get-go, Cassie has been seen as eye candy and reduced to an object. This carries through into Season 3, where it breaks all the barriers to objectification.
She seeks Maddy’s help throughout the process to better market herself as an adult content creator, but it only makes her seem selfish. While Maddy has lost a friend due to Cassie’s betrayal, the latter has lost self-respect big time. This is true for the character’s exploitative behavior, which is evident when she reconnects with Maddy just to use her for her own gain.
To feel valued, cherished, and even acknowledged, Cassie would go to any lengths. She chooses to become an adult entertainer and even pawns her engagement ring. Factoring in everything, we know one thing for sure: Cassie Howard’s fall from grace has started, and more trouble is brewing for her. Do you agree? Euphoria season 3 is currently available for streaming on HBO Max.
