The Weeknd, the acclaimed musician and actor, recently shared his thoughts on the mixed reviews of his HBO series The Idol. In an interview afterwards, he admitted his failings. He added that it “makes a lot of sense” given the five-episode structure of the show. He noted that the series could have benefited from a more traditional narrative arc and lamented the absence of a clear beginning, middle, and end.
The Weeknd, known to his mom as Abel Tesfaye, was heavily involved in the making of The Idol. He co-wrote the show, executive produced it, and starred in it. If anything, he took responsibility for how his total immersion in the material caused some of the difficulties encountered in production. “At that time, in my world, I had been seasoned, you know? I’d been able to control my work,” he said. Yet, he acknowledged the art of collaboration, insisting that being a good collaborator means respecting the creative vision of others.
Despite the adversity thrown at The Weeknd, he was grateful for the opportunity and support he had. Working with director Trey Edward Shults and co-stars Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan was something he highly valued. He attributed their support to his being able to shake nerves while shooting. “I think when anyone starts a new project, there’s a fear of the unknown, especially when you’re stepping into a new medium,” he remarked. The Weeknd was just as grateful to have his crew with him while filming his recent project. Hurry Up Tomorrow is currently in theaters!
Reflecting on the criticisms directed at The Idol, The Weeknd took responsibility for its portrayal of sensitive topics such as abuse. He went on to say that while facing criticism may be a tough process, it is just the life of an artist. “Look, being judged, shame, is not fun. But if you open yourself up then you have to be open yourself, you know,” he let on. He emphasized the importance of allowing a creative project to evolve naturally, saying one should “let it be whatever it is, even if it’s half-baked.”
In an interview, The Weeknd disclosed that The Idol was originally intended to be a feature film. Due to the new world after COVID, it turned into a television miniseries. “Pandemic happened, theaters are not a thing anymore at the time, television is the new god,” he explained. This overall pivot gave him and his fellow collaborators—Reza Fahim and Sam Levinson—no other choice but to adjust their vision for a new medium.
Reflecting on the challenges of collaborating in Hollywood, The Weeknd seemed particularly worried about earning the “difficult” flower. He noted, “When you come into another house, you gotta take your shoes off and be respectful. If you don’t take your shoes off, you are so easily labeled a tyrant, difficult.” He acknowledged that to be seen in this light is genuinely damaging to the artist’s brand. It’s perhaps the most traumatic experience they could go through within the industry.
With each step forward in his career, The Weeknd continues to follow his artistic vision with fierce dedication. Along the way, he artfully balances the nuances of working together. He has little patience for the concept of breaking in and thinks people should just pay their dues to the industry. “You’ve got to pay your dues,” he said, doubling down on his commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
