‘Euphoria’ Producer Kevin Turen Dead At 44, Cause Of Death Not Yet Determined

Reports have confirmed the passing of Kevin Turen, the producer known for his work in Ti West's X horror film franchise and acclaimed TV shows like "Euphoria" and "The Idol."

His father, Edward Turen, verified his passing over the weekend, although the cause of death remains undisclosed. Turen is survived by his wife, Evelina, and their two sons — Jack and James.

In the wake of Turen's passing, Jay Penske, CEO of Penske Media Corporation  and a close friend of the late film producer, issued a statement late Sunday that began:

"Despite his many achievements in Hollywood, Kevin’s greatest passion was his family and friends. He was so proud of his children. He and his wife, Evelina, were resolved that their children grow up with great values and ensured they make a difference in the broader world."

He continued, "Our collective heart breaks for them, and we all feel such a profound sense of loss. We will miss Kevin so much, and this town lost one of its brightest rising stars today," per The New York Post.

During his time on Earth, Turen pursued his education at Columbia University, earning a degree in English and Critical Film Studies upon graduation. The New York native then became a key figure in founding Little Lamb Productions alongside Sam and Ashley Levinson.

The company was responsible for successful projects such as HBO's "Euphoria," Netflix's "Pieces Of A Woman," starring Vanessa Kirby, and "Malcolm & Marie" featuring David John Washington and Zendaya. 

Unfortunately, the 44-year-old's death comes a few months after the tragic death of the show's star, Angus Cloud, who passed away on July 31 at the age of 25.

The cause of Turen's death is still yet to be determined!

Aside from mourning the losses of Cloud, who played Fezco and Turen, fans have added the delay of the third season of "Euphoria" to their list of painful moments. Earlier this month, HBO chief Casey Bloys announced during a recent presentation in New York City that the drama series, alongside the return of "The Last of Us," is delayed until 2025. 

The delay of the series' third season implies there will be significant changes in the upcoming episodes, especially since Cloud's unexpected passing left some uncertainty about how the show will address and manage the loss within the storyline. 

Additionally, Barbie Ferreira, who portrayed Kat Hernandez, revealed her decision to depart from the show in 2022, deciding not to return for the third season. Earlier this year, she shared her reasons for leaving, expressing her desire not to be typecast as the "fat friend." 

During a discussion on Dax Shepherd's "Armchair Expert" podcast, she elaborated on her decision, stating she didn't see a clear direction for her character to evolve within the show. As Deadline reported, she said:

"I think there were places she could have gone. I just don't think it would have fit into the show. I don't know if it was going to do her justice, and I think both parties knew that I really wanted to be able to not be the fat best friend. I don't want to play that, and I think they didn't want that either. I would have played her for as long as I was asked to."

Started in 2019, "Euphoria" takes place in the fictional town of East Highland, California, focusing on characters seeking hope amid the complexities of love, loss, and addiction. The series is an adaptation of an Israeli show of the same title, created by Ron Leshem and Daphna Levin.

In an August interview, show creator and principal writer Sam Levinson characterized Season 3 as a "film noir" and hinted at Zendaya's character, recovering addict Rue Bennett, delving into the concept of maintaining personal principles in a corrupted world.