Labrinth Declares “F*** Euphoria,” Announces Retirement from Music Industry
13 March 2026 • Entertainment
TORONTO – In a shocking social media outburst, Emmy-winning composer and musician Labrinth has declared he is “done with this industry” and levelled explicit criticism at the hit HBO series Euphoria and his record label, Columbia Records.
The British artist, whose real name is Timothy Lee McKenzie, posted a cryptic message on Instagram late Wednesday, stating, “F*** Euphoria” and announcing his apparent retirement. The post sent ripples through the entertainment world just a month before the highly anticipated premiere of Euphoria‘s third season on 12 April 2026.
“I’m done with this industry,” Labrinth wrote. The post also contained strong language directed at Columbia Records.
Labrinth, 37, has been synonymous with the gritty, atmospheric sound of Euphoria since its first season, earning an Emmy Award for his work on the score. Last year, HBO announced he would return alongside legendary composer Hans Zimmer to score the show’s long-delayed third season.
The sudden announcement throws a shadow over the upcoming season’s launch. Production on Season 3 was halted for over four years due to various issues, including the Hollywood strikes and scheduling conflicts with its star-studded cast.
Who is Labrinth?
Born in the London Borough of Hackney on 4 January 1989, Timothy Lee McKenzie broke into the music industry in the late 2000s, producing for UK artists like Tinie Tempah and Master Shortie. He found mainstream success as a solo artist with hits like “Beneath Your Beautiful” and “Earthquake.”
His collaboration with Euphoria creator Sam Levinson catapulted him to international fame, with the show’s soundtrack becoming a cultural phenomenon. He has also worked with major artists including The Weeknd, Sia, and Diplo.
Industry Reaction and What’s Next
As of publication, neither HBO, Columbia Records, nor representatives for Sam Levinson have issued public statements regarding Labrinth’s post. It remains unclear if his scoring work for Season 3 is complete or if this announcement will affect the final product.
The news dominated entertainment headlines Thursday, with fans and commentators expressing shock and confusion online. Some speculate the post could be a promotional stunt, though its vehement tone suggests a deeper rift.
All eyes will now be on the 12 April premiere to see if Labrinth’s musical signature remains a part of the world of Euphoria.