The Idol featuring The Weeknd cancelled after first season

Sam Levinson and Abel ‘The Weeknd’ Tesfaye's HBO show The Idol has been cancelled after one season, according to Variety.

The first series spanned five episodes, shortened from the originally intended six, and featured Tesfaye, Lil-Rose Depp, Troye Sivan, Moses Sumney and more.

The Weeknd also provided an original soundtrack.

"The Idol was one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response,” said a representative for HBO.

“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.”

RIP #TheIdol you were a fun mess to hate-watch pic.twitter.com/L8E48mhrdh

— mizge (@mihailo____) August 28, 2023

The programme made headlines earlier this year as Amy Seimetz, the show’s original director, walked out and was replaced by Levinson.

In March, Rolling Stone reported that the set was a toxic working environment.

“Certainly, even by Tesfaye and Levinson’s lofty standards, The Idol is an exercise in shameless button-pushing. Subjects like porn selfies and autoerotic asphyxiation are placed firmly on the agenda – and that’s before Jocelyn has even entered Tedros’ orbit,” said Hot Press’ Paul Nolan.

“While viewers’ mileage on the show’s transgressions may vary dramatically, there is something to be said for The Idol’s gaudy sensationalism.”

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