HBO’s The Idol is calling it a wrap after its debut season.
HBO’s show “The Idol” is canceled and won’t be returning for a second season, which might not come as a big surprise considering the mixed response it received. The series, created by Sam Levinson and The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye), only had a total of five episodes due to reshoots and changes in its production. The story revolved around Jocelyn (played by Lily-Rose Depp), a pop star recovering from a breakdown, determined to reclaim her stardom with the help of nightclub impresario Tedros (played by Tesfaye).
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While some cast members hinted at a possible second season, the show’s creators didn’t have a multi-season plan from the start. The first season deliberately left things open-ended for continuation, but after careful consideration, HBO and the show’s team decided against moving forward with another season. Despite being one of HBO’s daring original shows, the decision was ultimately made due to various reasons.
Initial viewership numbers for the first two episodes were promising, with the premiere drawing around 913,000 viewers on HBO and HBO Max. However, by the time the final episode aired, the show’s reception had turned largely negative, which could have influenced its viewership. The show aimed at a younger audience, which could explain the decrease in linear viewership but a surge in streaming numbers.
While “Euphoria” and “The White Lotus” saw positive critical and audience responses, “The Idol” faced more criticism. Despite its provocative nature, it failed to capture the same level of success. HBO acknowledged the creators, cast, and crew for their work on the show, even though a second season isn’t in the cards.
The show’s premise, cast, and the involvement of The Weeknd generated initial interest, but its trajectory and reception led to this unexpected conclusion. “The Idol” remains a part of HBO’s unique lineup, co-created by talents like Sam Levinson, The Weeknd, and Reza Fahim.