Euphoria Star James Landry Hébert Reacts to Possible Series Finale: “The Story Isn’t Done Yet”

James Landry Hébert says his time on Euphoria may not be over yet, even though Season 3 has wrapped. The actor, who plays Harley in HBO’s drama, believes there is still more story to tell in Sam Levinson’s world and says the character could return if the series continues. Hébert’s comments come amid ongoing speculation that the current season could be the show’s last, though he does not believe the narrative has reached a natural ending.

Hébert joined Euphoria in an unusual way. He originally auditioned for the role of Wayne, a part that eventually went to Toby Wallace. His performance impressed Levinson enough that the writer and showrunner created Harley specifically for him. Hébert said that kind of collaboration is one of the reasons he enjoys working with Levinson, whom he compared to Quentin Tarantino for his energy but described as especially accessible and open to ideas on set. He recalled even small moments and improvised lines becoming part of the final scene.

A major part of Hébert’s approach to Harley came from understanding the character’s motivations. While the show is filled with characters chasing different versions of “euphoria,” Hébert sees Harley’s version as infamy. He described the character as someone who wants to be feared, respected, and seen as bigger and tougher than he actually is. That idea shaped everything from his performance to wardrobe choices, including the use of loud, aggressive clothing meant to reflect Harley’s overcompensation.

Hébert also drew on his real-life background as a cowboy, saying that helped him bring authenticity to the role. He mentioned bringing pieces of that world into the production, including riding his own horse to set. He said the show’s Western elements felt natural to him, and that being around horses, ropes, and guns made the role easier to inhabit. Costume and production design, he added, helped sharpen the character by emphasizing the contrast between Harley’s image and his actual standing.

The actor spoke warmly about working with the ensemble, including Zendaya, Martha Kelly, Marshawn Lynch, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, and others. He praised Kelly’s understated style, Lynch’s presence, and the comfortable atmosphere Levinson creates on set. Hébert said the production, shot with Marcell Rév on Kodak film, often allowed for improvisation and spontaneity, which gave him confidence and helped the performances feel alive.

Outside Euphoria, Hébert is continuing a career defined by recurring tough-guy roles. He said he is currently working on the Snowfall spin-off, where he plays a cop, and is next set to appear in Ang Lee’s Gold Mountain. Looking back on a resume that includes work with J.J. Abrams, Quentin Tarantino, Frank Darabont, and others, Hébert said he remains grateful for opportunities that came from doing the work and showing up prepared. He hopes that path continues, and he has not ruled out a bigger future for Harley if Euphoria moves forward.