There will not be a second season of The Weeknd's controversial HBO series, The Idol.
The network announced that the provocative drama series from Abel Tesfaye (The Weeknd) and Sam Levinson (Euphoria) will not be renewed following a spotty first season that saw the six-episode run shortened to just five episodes.
“’The Idol was one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response,” a spokesperson for HBO said in a statement. “After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers have decided not to move forward with a second season. We’re grateful to the creators, cast, and crew for their incredible work.”
Back in June, HBO announced it had yet to confirm the future of the show, posting, "It is being misreported that a decision on a second season of The Idol has been determined. It has not, and we look forward to sharing the next episode with you Sunday night."
The series - starring The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp - was the subject of many early headlines due to delays and reshoots, and original director Amy Seimetz leaving the project, to be replaced by Levinson. There were also reports of toxic behaviour on set.