In the electrifying world of HBO's Euphoria, one character stood out as the ultimate villain: Nate Jacobs. Known for his menacing presence, Nate's antics kept viewers on the edge of their seats. From choking Maddy to waving guns, his unpredictable nature made him an intriguing, albeit terrifying, character. Yet, with the show's five-year time leap, it seems like Nate has undergone a character lobotomy, losing the very edge that made him compelling.
As season three unfolds, fans are greeted with a Nate Jacobs who seems to have swapped his ruthless persona for a much calmer demeanor. Gone are the days of psychological warfare, and in their place stands a struggling "nepo baby" dealing with family business woes. Jacob Elordi, who portrays Nate, has described this character shift as "liberating" and "the end of arrogance." While Elordi's rise to global stardom might explain this new direction, the lack of Nate's fiery temperament leaves viewers longing for the drama that once was.
“Baby, I’m trying to give you everything you want,” Nate tells Cassie, a far cry from his former explosive self.
The change in Nate's character has not gone unnoticed. Cassie's decision to start an OnlyFans account to fund an extravagant flower budget once would have sparked a dramatic reaction from Nate. Instead, he reacts with mild annoyance, a stark contrast to the monster who once would have been punching holes through drywall. This new dynamic feels lackluster, as the once toxic and engaging power play between Nate and Cassie has been reduced to mundane bickering over wedding decorations. Fans who returned for the intense drama are left questioning whether this new Nate is worthy of their continued attention.