The upcoming HBO series, created by singer The Weeknd and Euphoria writer-director Sam Levinson
reportedly had a troubled filming and production process and is attracting controversy for its
sexually explicit subject matter some critics say degrades its central female character and relies too heavily on shock value.
The Idol premieres on HBO June 4 and stars The Weeknd (credited as Abel Tesfaye) as a self-help guru
cult leader who enters a relationship with a pop star, played by Lily-Rose Depp,
trying to revitalize her career (Suzanna Son, Troye Sivan
Rachel Sennott and Blackpink member Jennie are other stars in supporting roles).
The show first made headlines for behind-the-scenes drama in April 2022
when Levinson took over directing duties from Amy Seimetz,
who exited the project after Levinson and The Weeknd decided on a new creative approach despite having already shot roughly 80% of the show,