Angus Cloud was an American actor born July 10, 1998, in Oakland, California, who gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Fezco in HBO’s “Euphoria” from 2019 to 2022. Discovered through street casting in New York without formal acting training, Cloud’s naturalistic performance style and authentic portrayal made Fezco the emotional heart of the series. He died on July 31, 2023, from an accidental overdose, leaving behind a legacy that influenced casting diversity and sparked ongoing conversations about authenticity in entertainment.
Angus Cloud, born July 10, 1998, in Oakland, California, emerged as one of television’s most compelling breakout stars through his portrayal of Fezco in HBO’s critically acclaimed series “Euphoria,” despite having no formal acting training prior to his discovery via street casting in New York.
Cloud’s unconventional path to stardom represented a departure from traditional Hollywood casting practices, as his authentic performance style drew directly from his Oakland upbringing and personal experiences rather than theatrical education.
Cloud’s journey from Oakland streets to Hollywood screens challenged industry norms through raw authenticity over formal training.
The actor’s breakout role as Fezco, a complex drug dealer in “Euphoria” spanning from 2019 to 2022, initially began as a supporting character but evolved into a central role due to overwhelming audience response and critical acclaim.
Cloud’s portrayal garnered praise for its emotional depth and naturalistic approach, with critics noting his ability to bring warmth and relatability to a character that could have been portrayed as merely menacing. His soft-spoken demeanor and credible delivery made Fezco widely regarded as the emotional heart of the series, earning Cloud a devoted fan following.
Cloud’s acting style consistently emphasized realism over conventional theatrical techniques, rejecting traditional acting conventions in favor of understated delivery that reflected his Oakland cultural background.
His approach prioritized authenticity and vulnerability, characteristics that became hallmarks of his performances across various projects. Beyond “Euphoria,” Cloud expanded his filmography to include “Your Lucky Day” (2023), “Freaky Tales” (2024), “Abigail” (2024), “The Line” (2023), and “North Hollywood” (2021), demonstrating versatility across multiple genres.
The actor’s Irish descent through family background influenced his cultural perspective, while his local Oakland education and community connections remained central to his identity throughout his career. He attended the Oakland School for the Arts, where he focused on theater tech rather than acting, gaining appreciation for storytelling through technical aspects of theater.
Cloud also participated in music videos for prominent artists including Becky G and Juice WRLD, and provided voice work for “The Garfield Movie” (2024), showcasing his range beyond dramatic television roles. Standing at 5′ 11″ tall, Cloud maintained a commanding physical presence that enhanced his on-screen performances throughout his career.
Cloud’s life ended tragically on July 31, 2023, in Oakland at age 25, with his passing attributed to accidental overdose following documented struggles with mental health.
His death prompted widespread tributes from the “Euphoria” cast, industry professionals, and fans who recognized his significant impact on television and film.
Cloud’s legacy extends beyond his individual performances, as industry observers acknowledge his influence on casting diversity in Hollywood and his role in demonstrating that non-traditional actors could achieve mainstream success.
His work continues to influence discussions about authenticity in entertainment, representing a breakthrough moment for actors from similar backgrounds seeking opportunities in professional acting without formal training.
