HBO's The Idol has bagged an Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming in the Creative Arts Emmys. Starring The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp, the show was canceled after just one season which had 5 episodes. It outshone Only Murders in the Building, Palm Royale, and Physical.
The show tells the tale of Jocelyn, a troubled pop star, who falls in love with Tedros, a cult leader, and their abusive relationship. With the star-studded cast came high expectations. However, all of these were quelled when the show debuted, as it received less-than-subpar reviews- 19% critics' score and 41% audience score, per Rotten Tomatoes.
In light of the plummeting review scores and no further hope of a second season, fans on the internet are torn over the show bagging an Emmy. Murmurs of the Emmys losing its sheen are growing louder.
"Lmaoooo okay bro sure man…if your production gets canceled after 3 episodes you shouldn’t even be allowed to be nominated for anything," one user said.
"They just be giving Emmys to anything nowadays," another user joked.
"For fastest show to be canceled?" another user asked.
However, some were on the opposing end of opinions, claiming the show deserved it.
"So many people tried to hate on the show and "meme" everything. It was targeted hate. But in reality, MILLIONS of people watched "The Idol" all over the world.. And even more people will watch it now, and again.. and again. It's an addictive series, with an insane cast," one user said.
"Award for choreography? well I think yes deserve for this," another chimed in.
"This should have gotten a season two. If you ignore the plot and accept it for what it is — music, aesthetics, vibes, a whole mood, it was an amazing show," another shared.
The Idol was one of HBO's "most provocative" programs
As sentiments surrounding the show grew overwhelmingly negative, many started speculating about the possibility of a second season. However, at the time, the rumors were quickly shut down when HBO took to X to decline the same in June 2023. They said in a tweet,
"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."
However, just two months later in August 2023, Variety reported that per an HBO spokesperson, The Idol was "one of HBO’s most provocative original programs. They also said they were "pleased by the strong audience response." They then added that the show would be canceled.
“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.”
The Weeknd performed at his 'One Night Only' event in São Paulo, Brazil, on September 7. Lili Rose-Depp, on the other hand, plays Ellen Hutter in the upcoming horror/mystery movie, Nosferatu, slated to premiere on 24 December 2025.
