Euphoria is a popular show streamed on HBO Max, known for its strong representation of LGBTQ+ characters, especially trans individuals. The show features Jules Vaughn, a transgender character portrayed by Hunter Schafer, a trans actress. This adds authenticity to her role. In a time where many shows still struggle with portraying trans characters in a genuine way, Euphoria stands out by giving Jules a fully developed, complex storyline.

What makes Euphoria particularly significant is how it gives a voice to the experiences of trans and queer individuals, not only through its characters but also in the way it’s written. In between seasons one and two, Euphoria released two special episodes, one focused on Jules and the other on Rue. Jules’ special episode was co-written by Hunter Schafer, the actress who plays Jules, and Sam Levinson. Schafer, a queer trans woman, brings more authenticity and understanding to Jules’ character (Vivek, 2022).

Euphoria doesn’t just focus on Jules’ gender transition or struggles. Instead, it shows her as a person with dreams, desires, and emotional depth. The show’s portrayal of Jules’ relationship with Rue is another example of LGBTQ+ love that doesn’t fit into stereotypical molds. It’s complicated and deeply emotional.

Visually, Euphoria stands out with its vibrant, dreamlike lighting and non-linear storytelling, making the show feel more like an immersive experience than just a regular TV series. These visual choices create a space where gender and identity aren’t limited by traditional rules. The show uses aesthetics and style to represent complex, non-binary identities (Goddard & Hogg, 2020). Its visual approach, especially in scenes with Jules, highlights the fluidity of her gender identity and emotional depth, reflecting the aesthetic innovations in Trans TV concept (Goddard & Hogg, 2018). Through techniques like bold vibrant colors, quick editing, and music video-inspired sequences, Euphoria breaks away from traditional storytelling and offers a fresh portrayal of queer and trans experiences.

• Goddard, M. and Hogg, C. (2018). ‘Introduction: Trans TV as concept and intervention into contemporary television’, Critical Studies in Television, 13(4). https://doi.org/10.1177/1749602018798217
• Goddard, M. and Hogg, C. (2020). ‘Introduction: Trans TV Re-evaluated part II’, Trans TV Dossier 3, Critical Studies in Television, 15(3). Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/toc/csta/15/3
• Vivek, A. (2022). ‘LGBTQ+ representation in Euphoria’, Trinitonian, 17 February. Available at: https://trinitonian.com/2022/02/17/lgbtq-representation-in-euphoria/

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