In a new cover story interview with 'Variety,' The Weeknd also opened up about how it contributed to his forthcoming album 'Hurry Up Tomorrow.'

The Weeknd AKA Abel Tesfaye is reflecting on the tumultuous production and controversial reception to “ The Idol .” The 2023 HBO series starred Tesfaye as a sleazy club owner turned music manager who becomes entangled in the life of a pop star (Lily-Rose Depp). Sam Levinson co-created the series with Tesfaye.

The Grammy winner acknowledged that he loved "reading criticism" of the controversial show — even if "some of it didn't feel constructive"

Max's The Idol was The Weeknd 's first major acting role. Unfortunately, the series was canceled after one season-a blip on Abel Tesfaye's otherwise stellar career. In a new interview with Variety, the pop icon opened up about the show's lukewarm reception,