The Powerful Transformation of Nate Jacobs in Euphoria's Season 2: A Redemption Arc That Will Leave You Breathless

Euphoria season 2 excessively focuses on redeeming Nate Jacobs and portraying him as a hero, despite it not being necessary for his character. Throughout the show, Nate Jacobs, portrayed by Jacob Elordi, has consistently displayed negative traits, such as catfishing and blackmailing Jules, as well as exhibiting abusive and toxic behavior towards his ex-girlfriend Maddy. However, the show attempts to shift the narrative by examining Nate's character and his relationship with his father Cal. Additionally, Nate enters into a secret relationship with Cassie, Maddy's best friend, further confusing the audience regarding his true intentions.

Despite Elordi's impressive portrayal of Nate, the writing surrounding his character has raised concerns as to why the show wants viewers to sympathize with him. Instead of acknowledging Nate as a villain, which he undeniably is, Euphoria insists on delving deeper into his character, unintentionally falling into harmful tropes by equating confusion about sexuality with violent and abusive behavior. This is exemplified in Nate's perplexing dream in episode 7 and his decision to report his father to the police in the season 2 finale.

Nate's decision to report Cal to the authorities isn't portrayed as a straightforward act of heroism, although the implication is present. During his conversation with a police officer, it becomes evident that the Jacobs family has had a longstanding connection with the East Highland police department. The situation itself is depicted as a form of payback for the harm inflicted upon Nate and their family by Cal. However, this pivotal moment falls somewhat short for a few reasons. One notable factor is that just a few episodes before the finale, Nate firmly believed that he had to keep his father's criminal activities concealed in order to safeguard the Jacobs family's construction business.

The heel turn and attempt to humanize Cal in Euphoria season 2 resulted in a confusing finale. Nate's unexpected decision to turn in his father, along with the inconsistent portrayal of both characters, left the audience with mixed feelings about the Jacobs family's storyline. While it would have made more sense for Nate to resort to violence against his father, Euphoria's twisted logic hinted at that possibility (as Nate confronts Cal with a gun). In the upcoming season 3, the focus on Nate and the Jacobs family will continue, with Cal's actor, Eric Dane, suggesting potential redemption for his character. However, instead of attempting to make these characters heroes, Euphoria should embrace their villainous nature and not try to persuade the audience to sympathize with them as they may be beyond redemption.