HBO has decided to cancel the controversial series “The Idol,” created by Sam Levinson and Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye, after just one season. 

Despite being one of HBO’s provocative original shows, the decision was reached due to uncertainties about its future. The spokesperson for HBO expressed gratitude towards the creators, cast, and crew for their efforts and the positive audience response. 

The first season, initially planned for six episodes, concluded after only five episodes on July 2.

The show, starring The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp, garnered attention even before its debut due to production changes and reshoots. Allegations of a toxic set environment were reported in a Rolling Stone article, leading to a public response from The Weeknd. 

However, the series received poor reviews overall, achieving a mere 19% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Variety’s review criticized it as a sordid male fantasy.

While the ratings started with 913,000 viewers, lower than Levinson’s previous HBO series “Euphoria,” they later climbed to 3.6 million viewers within the first week and reached a total of 7 million. 

Subsequent episodes saw a decline in viewership, and HBO chose not to disclose further viewership data during the show’s run. The cancellation decision was made following discussions with the creators and producers, disappointing fans and leaving the show’s potential second season uncertain.

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