HBO Confirms The Future Of Controversial Drama The Idol

Controversial US drama The Idol has been cancelled after just one season. 

Devised by Euphoria creator Sam Levinson and Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye,  The Idol was one of the most hotly-anticipated shows of the year and saw the musician play shady “guru” Tedros, while Lily-Rose Depp starred as struggling pop singer Jocelyn. 

After a mixed reception when it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, early reviews branded The Idol “chauvinistic” and “shameful”.

When the episodes finally arrived on HBO in the States and Now here in the UK, things didn’t get much better, and the show was criticised for a “tasteless” Jeffrey Epstein joke before the finale was absolutely destroyed by critics. 

An HBO spokesperson has now confirmed what often felt inevitable: The Weeknd and Lily-Rose will not be back for more. 

A statement read (via Variety): “The Idol was one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response.

“After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers have decided not to move forward with a second season. We’re grateful to the creators, cast, and crew for their incredible work.”

The Idol had ended with a huge twist which added to the sense of bewilderment many viewers felt. 

It was revealed that Jocelyn – who viewers witnessed being abused on multiple occasions – was apparently the master manipulator all along.

Meanwhile, Tedros’ life crumbled following an exposé on his dodgy dealings, yet Jocelyn decided they should still be together. 

One review of the episode read: “Rather than feel surprising or challenging, The Idol’s vision was so narrow that this last episode felt like one final ambivalent shrug of a storyline.”