In early June, The Idol caught significant attention featuring a star-studded cast including The Weeknd, Jennie (from BlackPink), and Troye Sivan. However, the series has become a focal point of criticism due to its explicit content, disturbing scenes, and low-quality narratives.
Notably, many viewers expressed disappointment prior to Jennie’s appearance. Korean media reported that the singer had broken the image of the “living Chanel” by accepting a prominent role that could jeopardize her career.
Yet, few are aware that it was The Weeknd who invited Jennie to join the project.
The Weeknd’s invitation to join The Idol has negatively impacted Jennie’s career.
A Major Role Can Jeopardize a Star’s Career
The Idol is considered a significant milestone, marking The Weeknd’s transition into the film industry. Previously, the 1990-born artist garnered attention for his minor role in Uncut Gems (2019), but this time he is taking on a leading role for the first time in his career. He has also assumed various responsibilities, from acting to storytelling and production. Moreover, he even used his “star power” to secure a role for Jennie in the series.
The content of The Idol is relatively straightforward, focusing on Jocelyn (played by Lily-Rose Depp)—a pop star struggling with personal issues and a waning career. She encounters the mysterious Tedros (The Weeknd), who helps her regain her former glory. Together, they embark on a tumultuous romantic journey filled with various dramatic events.
Contrary to many expectations, Jennie’s role is quite minimal. In the film, she transforms into a background character who serves the main character Jocelyn. Due to the limited screen time, it’s challenging to assess her acting abilities.
Prior to the release, the BlackPink member primarily focused on her music career, engaging in gigs that featured strong sexually suggestive elements, often drawing attention from many audiences.
Jennie and The Weeknd in the film.
The Weeknd’s influence seems to have pushed Jennie to join the project, creating an opportunity for her to shine on screen. Unfortunately, the BlackPink member faced backlash for accepting the role, which had negative repercussions on her career.
After the first episode of The Idol aired, Jennie became the most mentioned artist, but not for positive reasons. The focus shifted away from The Weeknd, as this marked Jennie’s first role on screen, contrasting sharply with her previously glamorous image.
In addition to criticisms about Jennie, many opinions highlighted YG Entertainment’s shortcomings in managing their star. However, Korean media suggests that the decision to join the series was entirely made by the female singer.
TenAsia reported: “Jennie has indeed met with The Weeknd and received an invitation to appear in the film. We learned that she had expressed a desire to be involved in this project.”
The BlackPink member previously discussed the project with The Weeknd in an interview with Women’s Wear Daily. She stated: “Joining is definitely a challenge, as I have never experienced anything like this before. For me, it feels like breaking through a wall.”
The singer also indicated that she would try her best and hopes everyone enjoys the film.
Jennie (BLACKPINK) in The Idol.
The Kpop star received numerous criticisms after participating in the film.
A Unique Relationship Between Jennie and The Weeknd
In reality, The Weeknd and Jennie share a close relationship. In November 2021, he was spotted leaving a restaurant with the Kpop star in Los Angeles, California. The two even hugged before parting ways.
By April 2022, Jennie also hinted at a romantic relationship with the phrase “Magical Weekend.” Interestingly, The Weeknd commented on this but did not say anything specific, merely leaving a star emoji.
Despite this, their relationship became a hot topic on social media, with fans speculating about their unique connection. Many hope for a potential collaboration between the two artists.
However, BlackPink fans believe that the relationship between Jennie and The Weeknd isn’t too complicated. Previously, the Kpop singer has covered several of his songs without ever hiding her admiration for his music.
When she was still a trainee at YG in 2015, Jennie performed The Weeknd’s hit The Hills, and this performance was featured in the documentary Blackpink: Light Up the Sky (2020), where she received much praise from audiences.
BlackPink members watch Jennie perform The Weeknd’s hit in the documentary.
A year later, Jennie continued to sing I Can’t Feel My Face, referencing The Weeknd’s name during an episode of Weekly Idol on MBC. Additionally, she and Rosé attended his concert in 2018, sharing videos on social media.
Ultimately, the unique relationship and feelings for The Weeknd motivated Jennie to decide to join The Idol. However, there are still no confirmed reports about whether they are dating or simply maintaining a professional connection.
Prior to this, BlackPink’s member had a notable relationship with Kai (EXO), briefly dated G-Dragon, and was rumored to have been linked with V (BTS).
The Weeknd, known for being a private person, prefers to keep his dating life out of the public eye. Consequently, his romantic involvement with Jennie has drawn considerable interest from many people.
The star has had a four-year relationship with model Bella Hadid and was also briefly linked with Selena Gomez, but those relationships did not last.
