Why was 'The Idol' Season 1 cut short? Controversol series ends early following backlash over disturbing content
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The HBO Max series 'The Idol' starring The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp has faced significant backlash over its disturbing content, leading to its early conclusion after five episodes instead of the planned six. The final episode titled 'Jocelyn Forever' is expected to focus on Lily-Rose Depp's character, a pop star who experiences a nervous breakdown and turns to a self-help guru and cult leader named Tedros, played by The Weeknd.
The show, created by Sam Levinson, The Weeknd, and Reza Fahim, has been criticized for its explicit and controversial scenes with some reportedly even describing it as 'torture porn,' as per Daily Mail. On Sunday, Weeknd confirmed the coming fight show will be the season's last episode. The real reason hasn't been officially shared.
What are the real reasons the 'The Idol' is cutting short?
However, 'The Idol' Season 1 was cut short, ending after five episodes instead of the planned six, due to reasons related to editing. According to a source who spoke to TV Line, the decision to reduce the season's length was a result of changes made by creator Sam Levinson. The source explained, "The season ended up being five episodes when it was all said and done after Sam took over and made significant changes. The story only ended up requiring five."
'This guy is in way over his head'
The explicit and graphic content of the show has been a major point of contention. However, The Weeknd, in an interview with GQ magazine, addressed the criticism and emphasized that the sex scenes are not intended to be "overtly sexy." He compared the show's approach to that of filmmaker Paul Verhoeven, known for his '90s satire thrillers like 'Basic Instinct,' stating, "Whether it's discomfort, or you feel gross, or you feel embarrassed for the characters, it's all those emotions adding up to: This guy is in way over his head, this situation is one where he is not supposed to be here."
The recent episode of 'The Idol' showcased Jocelyn's manager, Destiny, reporting on Tedros' illicit activities, further intensifying the storyline. However, viewers took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the show, criticizing both The Weeknd's acting and the shocking moments depicted, such as Tedros blindfolding Jocelyn and groping her while others observed without intervening. the Daily Mail noted.
