The Weeknd Isn't Surprised By The Negative Criticism Of 'The Idol': 'We're Doing Exactly What We Wanted To Do'

HBO's "The Idol" has received criticism from all corners since it debuted on the streaming platform. Starring singer The Weeknd, and Lily-Rose Depp, daughter of Johnny Depp, the series' overly sexual content, among other reasons, has continued to put it in a bad light.

Amid questions about whether the show will have a future on the streaming platform, The Weeknd has revealed that he isn't surprised by the criticism the show has received.

He previously addressed critics who slammed the second episode of the show over a sexual scene that involved him and Depp.

Keep on reading to learn more.

Speaking with Variety, The Weeknd revealed he is not bothered by the negative criticism "The Idol" has received since it debuted on HBO.

The controversial show, which is three episodes in, has been slammed for several reasons, including its graphic sexual content and for allegedly having a toxic set run by director Sam Levinson.

Viewers have also trolled the Weeknd for seemingly putting out subpar acting and for his X-rated lines on the show. The "Star Boy" crooner responded to the criticism in the interview, noting that none of the things seen in the show was a mistake.

"We're playing with genres with this show, we're doing exactly what we wanted to do," The Weeknd said. "And none of this is a surprise. I'm excited for everyone to watch the rest of the show."

In 'The Idol," The Weekend stars as nightclub owner Tedros, who manages the career of pop star Jocelyn (Depp). The duo's complicated relationship has been the highlight of the released episodes and has led to many discussions on social media.

While most of the conversations haven't been positive, The Weeknd expressed his hope that The Idol will teach viewers a lesson about how fame isn't only about being in the spotlight but also involves having to deal with the less glamorous aspects of it all.

"It's almost educational that this is what comes with being incredibly famous," the actor said of the show. "You're surrounded by people who you're not sure what their true intentions are, even if it seems like they're good. You just never know."

The "Save Your Tears" hitmaker went on to reveal that he has been "fortunate" to have people around him that he can trust, adding that he has known many of them almost his "entire life."

This isn't the first time The Weeknd has responded to criticism of "The Idol" in recent weeks.

The singer-songwriter previously made comments about the very graphic sex scene with his co-star in episode two of the show, where Terdos is heard addressing Jocelyn with incredibly vulgar phrases while she is masturbating.

In an interview with GQ, he said there is "nothing sexy about" the scene, despite viewers' claims. However, he did acknowledge that some viewers would experience discomfort or "embarrassment" when witnessing the scene.

He continued by saying that the scene was intended to draw attention to Terdos and his personal problems.

"It's all those emotions adding up to: This guy is in way over his head; this situation is one where he is not supposed to be here," he remarked.

In the meantime, it was speculated that a decision had been taken about the show being renewed for a second season, per Page Six.

One source said, "This was never meant to be a long-running show; it was always… a limited series," while another remarked that the door is "still definitely open" for a subsequent season.

However, HBO sought to clarify the speculations, noting via an official Twitter page that they have yet to decide on its fate. 

"It is being misreported that a decision on a second season of The Idol has been determined," the tweet read. "It has not, and we look forward to sharing the next episode with you Sunday night."