The Idol stirred more controversy than any HBO series in recent memory, but that wasn’t enough to grant it a Season 2 renewal. HBO pulled the plug on Sam Levinson’s drama starring Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd after a single season.
HBO’s spokeswoman described The Idol as one of “HBO’s most provocative original programs” and said they were pleased by the strong audience response despite deciding not to go forward with Season 2.
“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,” reads HBO’s statement.
The Idol followed the trials and tribulations of up-and-coming pop singer Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp), who’s trying to make a comeback after suffering a nervous breakdown. Her life gets even more complicated once she develops a complicated relationship with a modern-day cult leader and nightclub owner (The Weeknd).
Created by Euphoria’s Sam Levinson, The Idol also starred Troye Sivan, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Dan Levy, Eli Roth, Hari Nef, Jane Adams, Jennie Ruby Jane, Mike Dean, Moses Sumney, Rachel Sennott, Suzanna Son, and Hank Azaria. It featured a total of five episodes, and the first two were shown at this year’s Cannes Film Festival ahead of the HBO premiere in June.
