The Idol is Not Working for the Weeknd: What Happened to Him?
by Aishwarya R | Updated Jun 19, 2023
The Idol
The Idol is an American drama television series co-created by Sam Levinson, Abel "The Weeknd" Tesfaye, and Reza Fahim. The show revolves around the journey of Lily-Rose Depp's character, an aspiring pop idol, as she navigates her complicated relationship with Tedros, a self-help guru and cult leader portrayed by Tesfaye. The series features a talented ensemble cast including Suzanna Son, Troye Sivan, Moses Sumney, Jane Adams, Dan Levy, Jennie Ruby Jane, Eli Roth, Rachel Sennott, Hari Nef, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Mike Dean, Ramsey, and Hank Azaria.
Development for The Idol began in June 2021 when Tesfaye announced his collaboration with HBO, Fahim, and Levinson to create, executive produce, and co-write the drama series. Joseph Epstein was attached as the writer-showrunner, while Amy Seimetz was set to direct. Seimetz's initial vision for the show focused on a troubled starlet struggling against the exploitative nature of the entertainment industry and striving to regain control over her own life. Depp was cast as the female lead opposite Tesfaye in September 2021, and the remaining cast members were announced between November 2021 and July 2022. A significant portion of the series had already been filmed when Levinson took over as director after Seimetz's departure, leading to a production delay and creative reevaluation in April 2022. Levinson decided to discard Seimetz's work and reshoot the series with a different approach. Principal photography took place in Los Angeles and Bel Air.
The Idol premiered its first two episodes at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in May 2023, followed by its television debut on HBO and HBO Max starting June 4, 2023. The series has received generally negative reviews from critics, who criticized its explicit sexual content, themes, script, and direction. However, the cinematography, production design, and Depp's performance have been praised.
The Idol is Not Working For The Weeknd
The Weeknd's involvement in HBO's drama series, The ldol has not been successful for the artist. Despite showcasing his comedic talent in various other projects, his role in this show fails to enhance its dire critical reputation. "The Idol" suffers from a grim tone, humorless pacing, and a lack of compelling characters, which make it difficult to connect with or enjoy.
While many critics have focused on the explicit content in "The Idol," the show's delivery is its most significant issue. The story revolves around Lily-Rose Depp's character, Jocelyn, a teenage musician who gradually falls under the influence of The Weeknd's character, Teddy, a creepy nightclub owner. Unfortunately, the series lacks the energetic pace and engaging storytelling found in similar shows like "Euphoria." Despite occasional comedic relief from Rachel Sennott and Dan Levy, "The Idol" takes its overly familiar plot too seriously, hindering the audience's investment in the characters.
The Weeknd has previously showcased a sense of humor about his own stardom, but this is absent in "The Idol." It's disappointing to see the charismatic and self-deprecating persona he has displayed in projects like his guest appearance on "The Simpsons" or his parody of himself on "American Dad" not being utilized in this series. These previous roles demonstrated his ability to mock the entertainment industry and his own public image, but "The Idol" fails to build upon this surprising trend in his career.
The Idol shares similarities with creator Sam Levinson's other works, incorporating high-camp elements. However, the show fails to fully embrace its absurdity and instead opts for a sleazy and sordid approach, resulting in an overly self-serious tone. The Weeknd's performance as Teddy is a prime example of this problem. While Teddy is intended to be a dark, villainous figure, The Weeknd portrays him as an unambiguously evil and unsmiling monster, lacking the charm or wit that would make Jocelyn's attraction to him believable.
The Idol does not work for The Weeknd. The show's grim tone, humorless pacing, and lack of engaging characters hinder his performance and prevent him from showcasing the comedic chops he has demonstrated in other projects. The failure to capitalize on his previous successes and the self-serious nature of the series contribute to its disappointing reception.
What did The Weeknd do on The Idol?
On HBO's series "The Idol," The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, played a significant role both in front of and behind the camera. As co-writer, executive producer, and star of the show, The Weeknd had a multi-faceted involvement in the project. This marked his first major acting role, following a cameo appearance in the 2019 film "Uncut Gems."
In collaboration with his producing partner Reza Fahim and Sam Levinson, the visionary behind "Euphoria," The Weeknd co-created the music-industry drama. The initial announcement in June 2021 confirmed The Weeknd's participation, and it was revealed that he would portray the character of Tedros, an enigmatic Los Angeles club owner and underground cult leader.
However, as the production progressed, there were significant changes to the series, including a total overhaul and a shift in creative direction. In April 2022, HBO announced that Sam Levinson would step in as director, replacing Amy Seimetz. Despite the controversies and reported clashes surrounding the show, The Weeknd continued to be involved in the project and supported the new direction.
"The Idol" May Not Return for Season 2
As of now, the future of "The Idol" beyond its first season is uncertain. There has been no official confirmation or announcement regarding a potential renewal for a second season. The show premiered on June 4, 2023, and it remains to be seen whether it will garner enough viewership and critical acclaim to warrant continuation. Factors such as audience reception, ratings, and the creative team's interest and availability will play a role in the decision to renew or cancel the series.
HBO typically assesses multiple factors before committing to additional seasons of a show, including its financial viability and overall reception. Given the controversies and production challenges surrounding "The Idol," including the significant changes and reported conflicts during its development, the outcome regarding a second season remains uncertain. HBO will likely evaluate various factors before making a decision about the show's future.
About The Weeknd
The Weeknd is a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor. He was born on February 16, 1990. The Weeknd has established himself as a prominent figure in contemporary popular music. He is known for his unique music production, artistic reinventions, and his distinct use of the falsetto register. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and nominations, including 4 Grammy Awards, 20 Billboard Music Awards, 22 Juno Awards, 6 American Music Awards, 2 MTV Video Music Awards, a Latin Grammy Award, and even nominations for an Academy Award and a Primetime Emmy Award.
Born and raised in Toronto, Tesfaye initially gained attention in 2009 by anonymously releasing music on YouTube. Two years later, he co-founded the XO record label and released a series of mixtapes, including "House of Balloons," "Thursday," and "Echoes of Silence." These mixtapes garnered recognition for his unique blend of contemporary and alternative R&B, as well as the mystery surrounding his identity. In 2012, he signed with Republic Records and released a compilation album titled "Trilogy," which included his earlier mixtapes. He then ventured into the realm of dark wave with his debut studio album "Kiss Land" in 2013, which debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart.
Following the release of "Kiss Land," Tesfaye started contributing to film soundtracks. His single "Earned It" from the movie "Fifty Shades of Grey" (2015) not only won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance but also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. The Weeknd achieved critical and commercial success with his second album, "Beauty Behind the Madness" (2015), which featured a more pop-oriented sound. The album reached number one on the US charts and included chart-topping singles such as "Can't Feel My Face" and "The Hills." "Beauty Behind the Madness" won the Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album and was also nominated for Album of the Year.
The Idol Is Not Working For The Weeknd - FAQs
In the TV series "The Idol," The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye) served as one of the creators, executive producers, and co-writers. Additionally, he played the character of Tedros, a self-help guru and cult leader, in the series.
There seems to be an issue with "The Idol" not working for The Weeknd. While the specific details are not mentioned, it could refer to various aspects such as creative differences, production delays, or negative reception of the show.
On "The Idol," The Weeknd was involved in various capacities. He played a character, served as a creator, executive producer, and co-writer. His contributions likely influenced the overall direction and vision of the series.
It is uncertain if "The Idol" will return for a second season. The mention of the show not working for The Weeknd and the unfavorable reviews it received may impact its future prospects. However, no official confirmation or cancellation has been announced at this time.
"The Idol" received generally unfavorable reviews from critics. The specific criticisms mentioned include graphic sexual content, themes, script, and direction. However, some positive aspects such as cinematography, production design, and Lily-Rose Depp's performance were also highlighted.