The Idol Cancelled: HBO has decided to cancel the provocative drama series “The Idol,” which featured Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd in starring roles. The show, which premiered in June of this year, will no longer continue.
HBO’s “The Idol” didn’t make it to a second season, as HBO announced the show’s cancellation on Monday. Entertainment Weekly has confirmed through a recent report that the HBO drama, starring Lily-Rose Depp and Abel Tesfaye, also known as The Weeknd, will not continue after its first season. The series revolved around a young pop star named Jocelyn, portrayed by Lily-Rose, who becomes entangled with a secret cult led by Tedros, The Weeknd’s character.
HBO’s Statement about the Cancellation
An HBO spokesperson informed Entertainment Weekly, “The Idol was one of HBO’s most thought-provoking original programs, and we’re pleased with the enthusiastic audience response. After careful consideration, both HBO and the creators and producers have collectively decided not to pursue a second season. We extend our gratitude to the creators, cast, and crew for their exceptional work.”
Details about “The Idol”
The show featured a cast including The Weeknd, Lily-Rose Depp, Dan Levy, BLACKPINK’s Jennie, Rachel Sennott, Hari Nef, Hank Azaria, Jane Adams, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. “The Idol” followed the dark and seemingly reality-inspired tale of a renowned singer who aspired to become the “greatest and most alluring pop star in America.” Her life takes a turn when she becomes involved with a nightclub owner and cult leader with a troubled history.
Controversies Surrounding “The Idol”
Leading up to its premiere on June 4, HBO’s “The Idol” made headlines, but for less favorable reasons. Reports had emerged a year prior, hinting at issues behind the scenes, including the departure of a director, cast member, and significant reshoots at a different location.
This had generated mostly negative buzz around the show. Co-created by The Weeknd, Reza Fahim, and Sam Levinson, the creator of “Euphoria,” the drama premiered amid controversies regarding its overhaul after director Amy Seimetz left the project.
Rolling Stone conducted an interview with crew members and sources close to the production of “The Idol” in March, unveiling allegations of a toxic work environment, the show’s violent and disturbing content, and a departure from its original concept. Despite these claims, the cast refrained from criticizing the series.
Instead, the actors expressed praise. Da’Vine Joy Randolph, who portrayed Jocelyn’s manager, Destiny, mentioned in a June interview with Variety that there had been discussions about a potential second season due to HBO’s satisfaction with the series. She stated, “The intention is to have a second season. This wasn’t meant to be a limited series. HBO is content with it — to the extent that rumors of our cancellation circulated, and HBO took to Twitter [to address the rumors], which is rare for them. While nothing is official, HBO seems pleased.”
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