If you're an unashamed stan of The Idol, you're probably thinking ahead to, say, next season. You're most likely wondering, "what will Mr T. Tedros do next?" And not, "how does this man, with less charisma than a park bench, manage to ensnare so many hot young people?" You're enjoying Levinson's indisputable flare for visuals, the occasional one-liner from Rachel Sennott and playing World Class Sinner on loop. Are you a freak? Yeah. Are you getting said second season? Well, unfortunately it's a no on that front.
HBO has confirmed per Variety that the polarising series is being cancelled. You can put all your fears of seeing The Weeknd and that rat tail again, to bed. Probably for the best.
A spokesperson for HBO said, “The Idol was one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response. After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers have decided not to move forward with a second season," the statement continued. "We’re grateful to the creators, cast, and crew for their incredible work.”
It's unsurprising that the series isn't being renewed for a second season given the controversy that surrounded it from the outset. A damning Rolling Stone feature outlined a toxic set, explaining production delays, the exit of Amy Seimetz and more. By the time The Idol ended up on our screens, audiences already had a bad taste in their mouths. A few episodes in, and it was clear the trouble behind the scenes had leaked out into series, which was rushed and absurd, albeit beautiful to look at. In fact, we think the costumes created by Natasha Newman-Thomas were the best bit.
That being said, The Idol was always billed as a limited series. It was only after it aired that rumours of a second season began to swirl.
We may not be getting another peek behind the curtain of Jocelyn's chaotic universe. But we'll always have images of The Weeknd's foul dirty talk and that's more than any of us ever asked for.
Image: @HBO