In the HBO series “Euphoria,” Fezco “Fez” O’Neill was played by actor Angus Cloud, who passed away on Monday in Oakland, California. He was 25.
Approximately 11:30 a.m., the Oakland Fire Department reported that it went to a medical emergency; however, the patient was “already deceased.” The fire department reported that there was no confirmed cause of death. The Oakland Police Department has stated that it is still a “active death investigation.”
“It is with the heaviest heart that we had to say goodbye to an incredible human today,” Cloud’s family said in a statement. “As an artist, a friend, a brother and a son, Angus was special to all of us in so many ways. Last week he buried his father and intensely struggled with this loss. The only comfort we have is knowing Angus is now reunited with his dad, who was his best friend. 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.”
The statement continued, “We hope the world remembers him for his humor, laughter and love for everyone. We ask for privacy at this time as we are still processing this devastating loss.”
Cloud became well-known for his role as Fez in the Emmy-winning HBO teen drama “Euphoria.” He played a significant role in the first two seasons of the program. The movies “The Line” (2023) and “North Hollywood” (2021) were among his other acting credits.
He has received the lead role opposite Melissa Berrera in the upcoming horror film “Scream 6” at Universal Pictures, directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett. Additionally, Cloud appeared in a number of music videos, including those for “All Three” by Noah Cyrus, “Cigarettes” by Juice WRLD, and “Miamiii” by Becky G and Karol G.
When chosen as one of Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood honorees last year, Cloud remembered how she was picked up off the street to play the lead in “Euphoria.” His first acting gig was playing Fez.
“I was with some friends,” he said. “We were just hanging out.”
“It does bother me,” Cloud added, “when people are like, ‘It must be so easy! You get to go in and be yourself.’ I’m like, ‘Why don’t you go and do that?’ It’s not that simple. I brought a lot to the character. You can believe what you want. It ain’t got nothing to do with me.”
“Euphoria” casting director Jennifer Venditti also said, “People think, ‘Oh, he just shows up. He’s just this lazy stoner.’ Angus doesn’t get enough credit.”
On “Euphoria,” which has not yet begun filming for its third season, Cloud was a fan favorite.
“We are incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Angus Cloud,” HBO said in a statement. “He was immensely talented and a beloved part of the HBO and Euphoria family. We extend our deepest condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time.”
He attended Oakland School of the Arts, where he met his “Euphoria” co-star Zendaya, and was cast in the movie while working at a Brooklyn restaurant. He was born Conor Angus Cloud Hickey.
