Sharon Stone Joins 'Euphoria' as TV Legend Gilligan Demands More Heroes

Max Sterling, 2/16/2025Sharon Stone's potential role in HBO's "Euphoria" hints at an exciting new direction as the show prepares for a time jump. Meanwhile, Vince Gilligan calls for more positive protagonists, reflecting a shift in storytelling amid a surge of complex anti-heroes.

In a week that's reshaping the landscape of prestige television, three major developments signal both exciting casting choices and a potential philosophical shift in storytelling approaches.

HBO's provocative teen drama "Euphoria" is finally awakening from its extended hibernation between seasons, with Hollywood veteran Sharon Stone reportedly in talks to join the ensemble cast. While the role remains shrouded in mystery — much like most details about the third season — the addition of Stone could bring a fascinating new dynamic to a show that's already pushed boundaries in its exploration of teenage life. The upcoming season will reportedly feature a time jump, taking its characters beyond their high school years — a practical solution to address the cast's natural aging during the show's extended production breaks.

Meanwhile, at the Writers Guild Awards, "Breaking Bad" creator Vince Gilligan delivered a compelling critique of television's anti-hero obsession — one that could reshape how we approach character development in the streaming era. "Bad guys who make their own rules, bad guys who no matter what they tell you, are only out for themselves," Gilligan observed, before proposing a refreshing alternative: "Maybe what the world needs now are some good, old-fashioned, greatest generation types who give more than they take."

The timing of Gilligan's speech feels particularly poignant — coming at a moment when television seems caught between its appetite for morally complex antagonists and a growing hunger for more inspiring narratives. His admission that villains are "easier to write well" underscores the creative challenge ahead for writers attempting to craft compelling heroes for our cynical age.

In a different corner of the television universe, "Bridgerton" is proving that sometimes the most satisfying stories are the ones that embrace hope and romance. The period drama's fourth season is welcoming back Simone Ashley and Jonathan Bailey — along with their on-screen child — maintaining the show's commitment to building a rich, multi-generational narrative tapestry. The returning couple's presence adds depth to a season that will focus on Benedict Bridgerton's romance with Sophie, played by newcomer Yerin Ha.

Luke Thompson, who plays Benedict, has taken an intriguingly independent approach to his leading role. "I was tempted to ask," he said of seeking advice from previous leads, "and then I thought, no, I'm just gonna find out myself — how I want, how it feels to me." This instinct for character ownership — shared by his co-star Ha — suggests a season that will carve its own unique path while honoring the series' established framework.

As television continues to evolve, these developments suggest an industry in thoughtful dialogue with itself about the stories it tells and how they impact viewers. From Stone's potential addition to "Euphoria" to Gilligan's call for more inspiring protagonists, we're witnessing a moment of reflection about the power of narrative choices in shaping cultural conversations.

In a week that's reshaping the landscape of prestige television, three major developments signal both exciting casting choices and a potential philosophical shift in storytelling approaches.HBO's provocative teen drama "Euphoria" is finally awakening from its extended hibernation between seasons, with Hollywood veteran Sharon Stone reportedly in talks to join the ensemble cast. While the role remains shrouded in mystery — much like most details about the third season — the addition of Stone could bring a fascinating new dynamic to a show that's already pushed boundaries in its exploration of teenage life. The upcoming season will reportedly feature a time jump, taking its characters beyond their high school years — a practical solution to address the cast's natural aging during the show's extended production breaks.Meanwhile, at the Writers Guild Awards, "Breaking Bad" creator Vince Gilligan delivered a compelling critique of television's anti-hero obsession — one that could reshape how we approach character development in the streaming era. "Bad guys who make their own rules, bad guys who no matter what they tell you, are only out for themselves," Gilligan observed, before proposing a refreshing alternative: "Maybe what the world needs now are some good, old-fashioned, greatest generation types who give more than they take."The timing of Gilligan's speech feels particularly poignant — coming at a moment when television seems caught between its appetite for morally complex antagonists and a growing hunger for more inspiring narratives. His admission that villains are "easier to write well" underscores the creative challenge ahead for writers attempting to craft compelling heroes for our cynical age.In a different corner of the television universe, "Bridgerton" is proving that sometimes the most satisfying stories are the ones that embrace hope and romance. The period drama's fourth season is welcoming back Simone Ashley and Jonathan Bailey — along with their on-screen child — maintaining the show's commitment to building a rich, multi-generational narrative tapestry. The returning couple's presence adds depth to a season that will focus on Benedict Bridgerton's romance with Sophie, played by newcomer Yerin Ha.Luke Thompson, who plays Benedict, has taken an intriguingly independent approach to his leading role. "I was tempted to ask," he said of seeking advice from previous leads, "and then I thought, no, I'm just gonna find out myself — how I want, how it feels to me." This instinct for character ownership — shared by his co-star Ha — suggests a season that will carve its own unique path while honoring the series' established framework.As television continues to evolve, these developments suggest an industry in thoughtful dialogue with itself about the stories it tells and how they impact viewers. From Stone's potential addition to "Euphoria" to Gilligan's call for more inspiring protagonists, we're witnessing a moment of reflection about the power of narrative choices in shaping cultural conversations.