Explicit Criticism: The musician specifically targeted HBO’s Euphoria* and his label, Columbia Records, with expletive-laden remarks.
Timing is Critical: The outburst comes exactly 30 days before the highly anticipated premiere of Euphoria* Season 3 on April 12.
- Composer Friction: Rumors suggest tension may have peaked following the addition of legendary composer Hans Zimmer to the show’s musical team.
- Industry Support: High-profile artists like Kesha have publicly supported Labrinth’s decision to prioritize his mental peace.
Summary Lead
In a move that has stunned the music and television industries, Labrinth—the sonic architect behind HBO’s Euphoria—has seemingly walked away from his career. On the evening of March 12, 2026, the Emmy-winning composer, born Timothy Lee McKenzie, took to Instagram to post a cryptic and aggressive message targeting his long-term collaborators. Declaring that he is “done with this industry,” Labrinth’s post featured the phrases “F– Columbia” and “Double f– ‘Euphoria’,” sparking a firestorm of speculation regarding the future of the hit show just weeks before its third season debut. This sudden departure marks a significant turning point for a series that has relied heavily on Labrinth’s unique soundscapes to define its identity.
The Deep Dive
For seven years, Labrinth has been the undisputed heartbeat of Euphoria. His compositions, including the haunting anthem “All For Us” and the Grammy-nominated “Never Felt So Alone,” did more than just soundtrack the lives of Rue Bennett and her classmates; they provided the emotional scaffolding for the entire series. However, that partnership appears to have dissolved in spectacular fashion.
The Scathing Social Media Post
The controversy began late Thursday night when Labrinth uploaded a series of text-based images to his Instagram. Without a caption or prior warning, the post read: “I’M DONE WITH THIS INDUSTRY. F– COLUMBIA. DOUBLE F– ‘EUPHORIA.’ I’M OUT. THANK YOU AND GOOD NIGHT X.”
The finality of the message, signed off with a characteristically British “x,” immediately trended across X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit. Fans and industry insiders alike were left scrambling for answers. Neither representatives for Labrinth, HBO, nor Columbia Records have issued a formal statement, but the vitriol directed at both his label and the show that brought him mainstream acclaim suggests a deep-seated grievance involving both artistic control and financial disputes.
The Hans Zimmer Factor
While the exact cause of the rift remains speculative, many industry analysts are pointing toward recent changes in the production of Euphoria Season 3. Last year, HBO announced that Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer would join the music department. While Labrinth initially expressed excitement about working with one of his heroes, recent interviews may have signaled a shift in hierarchy.
In a Hollywood Reporter feature published on March 11, showrunner Sam Levinson praised Zimmer’s new score as “unlike anything the show had done before,” notably omitting any mention of Labrinth’s contribution to the upcoming season. This perceived sidelining, coupled with the immense pressure of scoring a season that has already faced years of delays and cast departures, may have been the breaking point for the 37-year-old artist.
A Troubled Road to Season 3
The timing of Labrinth’s exit could not be worse for HBO. Euphoria Season 3 is scheduled to premiere on April 12, 2026, after a grueling four-year hiatus. The production has been plagued by tragedy and turnover, including the untimely passing of star Angus Cloud and the departures of cast members like Barbie Ferreira and Storm Reid.
Labrinth’s departure adds a significant creative hurdle. Though filming for the eight-episode season wrapped in late 2025, the post-production music phase is where the show’s “magic” is usually finalized. If Labrinth has truly severed ties, it remains unclear if his finished work will remain in the season or if Zimmer will be tasked with a last-minute overhaul of the sonic landscape.
Industry Reactions and Support
Despite the aggressive tone of the post, the response from Labrinth’s peers has been overwhelmingly supportive. Singer Kesha commented, “Take care of your peace my love. You are loved and supported,” while several prominent makeup artists and stylists from the Euphoria set echoed sentiments of understanding.
For many fans, Labrinth is the show. Social media has been flooded with comments suggesting that without his music, the series loses its primary allure. “Who’s gonna tell them I only watched for the Labrinth bangers?” wrote one fan on the viral Reddit thread discussing the news. As the April 12 premiere looms, the “Euphoria” surrounding the show’s return has been replaced by a somber uncertainty about its creative future.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Why did Labrinth say ‘F– Euphoria’?
While Labrinth has not elaborated on the specific reason, the post targets both the show and his record label, Columbia Records. Industry insiders suggest the frustration may stem from creative differences, the addition of Hans Zimmer to the scoring team, or long-standing contract disputes with his label.
Is Labrinth leaving the music industry forever?
In his post, Labrinth stated, “I’m done with this industry,” which many interpreted as a retirement from professional music. However, it is common for artists to use such language during periods of high stress or during disputes with major labels. No formal retirement statement has been released.
Will Euphoria Season 3 still be released on April 12?
Yes, as of now, HBO has not changed the premiere date. Euphoria Season 3 is set to debut on April 12, 2026. Since filming wrapped in November 2025, the majority of the season is likely complete, though Labrinth’s exit may affect the final musical arrangements.
