Ashtray (Javon Walton) is the character who definitively died in the climactic and intensely emotional seventh episode of Euphoria season 2, titled “The Theater and Its Double.” His tragic death occurs during a violent police raid on Fezco’s (Angus Cloud) apartment, a situation escalated by Ashtray’s impulsive decision to protect Fezco from being arrested.
The Harrowing Sequence of Events
The episode builds to a fever pitch as Custer (Tyler Chase) betrays Fezco and Ashtray to the police, acting as an informant. Sensing imminent danger, Fezco attempts to prevent Ashtray from taking matters into his own hands. However, Ashtray, ever fiercely protective of Fezco, ignores Fezco’s pleas and retrieves a hidden gun. He then brutally murders Custer, solidifying the pair’s predicament and setting off a chain of events that leads to Ashtray’s demise.
The police raid is a chaotic and terrifying scene. Ashtray, refusing to surrender, locks himself in the bathroom and engages in a firefight with the officers. While the audience initially sees Ashtray apparently succumb to a gunshot wound during the shootout, the ambiguity surrounding his final moments leaves room for speculation. However, subsequent statements from cast and crew, including explicit confirmation from Javon Walton himself, solidify Ashtray’s tragic fate. The implication is clear: Ashtray is dead. This loss profoundly impacts Fezco, who is arrested and left to grapple with the guilt and grief of the situation.
Unpacking the Emotional Impact
Ashtray’s death is not simply a plot point; it’s a pivotal moment that underscores the cycle of violence and trauma that permeates Euphoria. Ashtray, raised in a volatile and criminal environment, never had a chance to experience a normal childhood. His unwavering loyalty to Fezco, born from their shared upbringing, ultimately leads to his tragic downfall. The scene is further amplified by Fezco’s emotional reaction, demonstrating the deep bond between the two. This single death reverberates throughout the narrative, promising to significantly shape the characters’ trajectories in future seasons. The consequences of Ashtray’s actions and the events leading to his death will undoubtedly haunt Fezco and influence his future choices.
FAQs About Ashtray’s Death and its Aftermath
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the circumstances surrounding Ashtray’s death and its implications within the Euphoria narrative:
1. Did Fezco Die in the Shootout?
No, Fezco did not die in the shootout. While he was injured, he survived the raid and was taken into police custody. The confusion stems from the chaotic nature of the scene and the fact that Fezco was in close proximity to the gunfire. However, it is explicitly confirmed that Fezco survived.
2. Why Did Ashtray Kill Custer?
Ashtray killed Custer because he realized Custer was working as an informant for the police. Ashtray, being incredibly protective of Fezco, understood the danger Custer posed and acted impulsively to eliminate the threat. His actions were driven by a deep-seated loyalty and a desire to protect Fezco at all costs.
3. Was Ashtray Actually Shot in the Head?
The final scene with Ashtray is deliberately ambiguous. The camera angle shifts and a shot rings out, but it is not explicitly shown. However, comments from Javon Walton, the actor who played Ashtray, confirm that the intention was for Ashtray to be dead. The ambiguity serves to heighten the emotional impact and allows for interpretation, but the ultimate outcome is clear.
4. How Will Ashtray’s Death Affect Fezco?
Ashtray’s death will profoundly affect Fezco. Fezco views Ashtray as his brother, and his guilt over Ashtray’s actions will likely be immense. He will likely struggle with survivor’s guilt and the realization that his lifestyle contributed to Ashtray’s demise. Expect to see Fezco grappling with grief and potentially seeking a path to redemption in future seasons.
5. Could Ashtray Return in Future Seasons Through Flashbacks?
While Ashtray is definitively dead in the present timeline of the show, flashbacks are certainly possible. Euphoria frequently uses flashbacks to explore characters’ backstories and motivations. It’s highly probable that Ashtray will reappear in flashbacks, providing further insight into his relationship with Fezco and his early life.
6. Why Didn’t Fezco Stop Ashtray from Killing Custer?
Fezco attempted to stop Ashtray, but Ashtray acted too quickly. Fezco was caught off guard by Ashtray’s impulsiveness and was unable to intervene effectively. The speed and suddenness of Ashtray’s actions highlight his volatile nature and the difficulty Fezco has in controlling him.
7. Did Ashtray Plan to Kill Custer All Along?
There’s no indication that Ashtray planned to kill Custer beforehand. His decision appears to be a spontaneous reaction to the realization that Custer was an informant. It was a rash and desperate move driven by instinct rather than pre-meditation.
8. How Does Rue React to Ashtray’s Death?
While Rue (Zendaya) isn’t directly involved in the events leading to Ashtray’s death, she will undoubtedly be affected by the news. Fezco is a significant figure in her life, and his pain and loss will likely impact her. However, the focus remains primarily on Fezco’s reaction and consequences. Rue’s storyline may indirectly reflect the impact of Ashtray’s death on the community, but not in a direct confrontation.
9. Will Fezco Face Jail Time Because of Ashtray’s Actions?
Yes, Fezco is likely to face jail time. While he didn’t pull the trigger himself, he was present at the scene of the crime and will be held accountable for his involvement in Custer’s illegal drug operation and his connection to Ashtray. His legal fate remains uncertain, but he will almost certainly face serious consequences.
10. What is the Significance of the Final Shot of Fezco?
The final shot of Fezco, visibly distraught and bleeding, is powerful. It emphasizes the devastating impact of Ashtray’s death on him and highlights the cycle of violence and loss that defines his life. The shot serves as a cliffhanger, leaving the audience to wonder about Fezco’s future and the consequences he will face.
11. Could Ashtray Have Survived the Police Shootout?
While the show leaves some room for interpretation, the overwhelming evidence points to Ashtray’s death. From the director and showrunner to the actor, everyone involved in the show has confirmed that Ashtray died in that moment. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that Ashtray survived the police shootout.
12. How Does Ashtray’s Death Contribute to the Overall Themes of Euphoria?
Ashtray’s death underscores the central themes of Euphoria, including the cycle of violence, the impact of trauma, and the struggle for survival in a harsh environment. His tragic fate serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of violence and the lack of opportunities for vulnerable individuals. His death also highlights the importance of human connection and the devastating effects of loss.