The Idol (2023)
A provocative HBO drama series exploring fame, desire, and dangerous obsession at the heart of the American pop music industry.
The Idol - Series Information
- Original Title: The Idol
- First Air Year: 2023
- Last Air Year: 2023
- Created by: Sam Levinson, The Weeknd et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 5
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: June 4, 2023 (United States - NR), June 4, 2023 (Germany - 16), June 4, 2023 (France - 16), June 4, 2023 (India - A), June 4, 2023 (Brazil - 18), June 4, 2023 (Mexico - C), June 4, 2023 (South Korea - 19)
- Networks: HBO
- Production Companies: A24, Bron Studios, The Reasonable Bunch, Manic Phase, Tiny Goat, People Pleaser Productions, HBO
- Production Countries: Canada, United States of America
The Idol - Plot
After a nervous breakdown derailed Jocelyn's last tour, she's determined to claim her rightful status as the greatest and sexiest pop star in America. Her passions are reignited by Tedros, a nightclub impresario with a sordid past. Will her romantic awakening take her to glorious new heights or the deepest and darkest depths of her soul?
The Idol - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the world of The Idol unfold:
We all crave things that aren't good for us.
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The Idol - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Sam Levinson
- The Weeknd
- Reza Fahim
Main Cast
- The Weeknd
- Lily-Rose Depp
- Suzanna Son
- Troye Sivan
- Jane Adams
- Kais Boukthir
- Mitch Modes
- Hank Azaria
- Ramsey
- Da'Vine Joy Randolph
Writers
- Sam Levinson
- The Weeknd
- Reza Fahim
Executive Producers
- Aaron L. Gilbert
- Joe Epstein
- Sara E. White
- Reza Fahim
- Kevin Turen
The Idol - FAQs
Where can you watch The Idol online?
The Idol is available to stream on HBO Max (now Max). It can also be purchased digitally on Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. A Max subscription is the most convenient way to watch the full series on demand.
Why was The Idol cancelled after one season?
HBO cancelled The Idol in August 2023 after its five-episode first season concluded. The show received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics, who criticized its writing, tone, and portrayal of its female lead. Low critical scores and controversy surrounding its production contributed to the cancellation decision.
Who are the main actors in The Idol?
The Idol stars The Weeknd as Tedros, a manipulative nightclub owner, and Lily-Rose Depp as Jocelyn, a pop star seeking a comeback. The supporting cast includes Troye Sivan, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Hank Azaria, Suzanna Son, Jane Adams, Ramsey, Moses Sumney, and Rachel Sennott.
What is The Idol about?
The Idol follows Jocelyn, a pop star rebuilding her career after a public breakdown, who becomes entangled with Tedros, a charismatic and manipulative nightclub impresario. The series explores themes of fame, desire, power, and psychological control within the dark underbelly of the music industry.
Is The Idol based on a true story?
The Idol is not based on a specific true story. However, co-creator The Weeknd drew on his personal experiences in the music industry to shape the world of the series. The show fictionalizes aspects of pop stardom, celebrity culture, and the pressures facing female artists in the entertainment business.
How did critics receive The Idol on HBO?
The Idol was widely panned by critics, earning a Rotten Tomatoes score of around 25%. Reviewers criticized the show's shallow characterization, gratuitous content, and muddled storytelling. Despite strong performances from Lily-Rose Depp and a high-profile cast, the series was considered one of 2023's most disappointing prestige television efforts.
Who created The Idol series on HBO?
The Idol was created by Sam Levinson, the showrunner behind Euphoria, alongside musician The Weeknd and writer Reza Fahim. The trio co-developed the concept, with Levinson directing multiple episodes and The Weeknd starring as the male lead, Tedros.
What is the content rating for The Idol?
The Idol is rated TV-MA, meaning it is intended for mature audiences only. The series contains explicit sexual content, strong language, and adult themes related to psychological manipulation, the music industry, and celebrity culture. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.
More About The Idol
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