Angus Cloud, Euphoria Star, Dead At 25

Actor Angus Cloud has died at age 25 in Oakland, California, according to a report from TMZ. The Bay Area-born actor was best known for his role as "Fezco," the lovable friend of "Rue" on the critically acclaimed HBO Max series, "Euphoria." At the time of writing, details about the nature of Cloud's death remain unknown.

Cloud was born and raised in Oakland, California, where he attended the Oakland School For The Arts (the same alma mater as his "Euphoria" co-star Zendaya). He later moved to New York City following his high school graduation, where he worked in food service jobs before being scouted by a "Euphoria" casting director while walking down a Manhattan street. Following the show's 2019 debut, Cloud quickly became a fan favorite for his one-of-a-kind low voice and down-to-earth personality. He later acted in the films "North Hollywood" and "The Line," and appeared in several music videos, including the late rapper Juice WRLD's "Cigarettes" and Becky G's "Mamiii." He also got involved with the fashion world, and was known for attending major events such Coach's Fall 2022 show and New York Fashion Week.

Cloud is survived by his mother, twin sisters, and younger brother. Speaking in a statement to TMZ, the actor's family revealed that he had struggled with his mental health following the death of his father, which happened earlier this year. "Angus was open about his battle with mental health and we hope that his passing can be a reminder to others that they are not alone and should not fight this on their own in silence," they expressed to the outlet. 

Despite attending an arts school, Cloud never anticipated he would find success as an actor, let alone on a hit TV show. His move to Bushwick, New York happened spontaneously after he decided to not buy buying a return ticket home following a visit with friends. To make ends meet, he took up a job at a chicken and waffles restaurant. In a 2019 interview with GQ, he shared that he thought he was being pranked when "Euphoria" casting director Eleonore Hendricks approached him about playing the good-hearted drug-dealer "Fezco." "I was confused and I didn't want to give her my phone number," he told the outlet. However, despite his lack of acting experience, Cloud decided to give the audition a chance, flying out to LA and immediately winning over the producers with his natural charisma. "He has this rough, street quality about him, but he's a very sensitive and curious and open person," Hendricks told Variety about the choice to cast him. "Just really warm, and incredible on camera." 

There's no denying Cloud left an impact on fans as well, with many taking to social media to mourn the star's sudden death. "Angus Cloud came into Euphoria with no acting experience and then effortlessly created the show's most charming character," wrote one Twitter user. "He had a long career ahead of him, but Fez alone will be an iconic character for generations. I hope he's at peace now."