The Canadian singer takes his first steps as an actor in the series “The Idol”, subject of many controversies during its production. The pop star talks about the design of the program.
Known for his many pop hits and his impressive concerts, the singer The Weeknd ventures into the world of series with The Idol, fiction that he produces, co-writes and in which he embodies the second main role.
He plays Tedros, a not very reassuring nightclub owner who will exert his influence on a young pop star named Jocelyn and played by Lily-Rose Depp.
Presented out of competition at the 76th Cannes Film Festival, the program – directed by the creator of Euphoria, Sam Levinson – drew the wrath of critics who judged the series “misogynist”, “empty” and sensationalist. Long before its release, The Idol was predestined to spark controversy from its chaotic production.
While filming was well underway, director Amy Seimetz left the series, dissatisfied with the changes made to the script. As a result, Sam Levinson returned a large part of the scenes. In an interview with W MagazineThe Weeknd confided in these many changes, which he ardently defends:
“I wanted to be persuaded to come up with the best version of what we were doing. It was a challenge to return The Idol and, in truth, I sacrificed my health and my home to make it work. So even if the show comes out and it’s absolutely awful, at least I know I did my best. And from what I’ve seen, the series is great.”
The singer insists and specifies that he wanted to take his time: “Movies and television are new creative muscles for me. I don’t release my music until I know it’s good. Why would it be any different here?”
He pursues : “My secret is that I don’t panic. When everyone around me is worried, I stay upright. But I panicked when I lost my voice. I had to rest and think, both about The Weeknd but also about the character of Tedros.”
The Idol is available on Prime Video via the Warner Pass.