A new trailer for HBO’s controversial upcoming series ‘The Idol’ is here, and it actually looks good.
In the preview, the upcoming show further delves into the relationship between the characters of both Depp and Tesfaye. The so-called modern-day cult leader is questioned, particularly on his influence on the struggling pop star as she looks to reinvent herself. Rachel Sennott’s character, who appears to be a manager of sorts to Jocelyn, says in the teaser, “He’s brainwashed her.” In tears with makeup running down her face, Depp also says, “I promise you, there’s a new Jocelyn coming”. Only time will tell if that reinvention is the result of her own or someone else’s vision of what she should be. ‘The Idol’ is set to premiere on June 4.
For those unfamiliar, the official synopsis for the show reads, “After a nervous breakdown derailed Jocelyn’s (Lily-Rose Depp) last tour, she’s determined to claim her rightful status as the greatest and sexiest pop star in America. Her passions are reignited by Tedros (The Weeknd), a nightclub impresario with a sordid past. Will her romantic awakening take her to glorious new heights or the deepest and darkest depths of her soul?”
This comes after controversy surrounded the upcoming series, with original director Amy Seimetz departing the show, and Sam Levinson subsequently taking the reins. Speculation was raised that the show’s overall tone and direction had changed, placing a heavier emphasis on glamorizing the toxicity of Hollywood, rather than commentating on it.
HBO however did address these concerns, saying, “The creators and producers of The Idol have been working hard to create one of HBO’s most exciting and provocative original programs. The initial approach on the show and production of the early episodes, unfortunately, did not meet HBO standards so we chose to make a change. Throughout the process, the creative team has been committed to creating a safe, collaborative, and mutually respectful working environment, and last year, the team made creative changes they felt were in the best interest of both the production and the cast and crew. We look forward to sharing The Idol with audiences soon.”
‘The Idol’ also features Jane Adams, Jennie Ruby Jane, Dan Levy, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Eli Roth, Hari Nef, Mike Dean, Moses Sumney, Ramsey, Suzanna Son, and Hank Azaria in its cast.