The Idol is the most controversial series of 2023, featuring numerous provocative scenes and attracting low ratings due to criticisms from the audience, alongside the participation of Jennie, a member of BLACKPINK. However, the main focus of the audience’s ire towards the show remains due to its many 18+ elements that are not suitable for the screen. Recently, Page Six revealed that lead actress Lily-Rose Depp faced pressure to perform a particularly sensitive scene.
According to exclusive reports from Page Six, director Sam Levinson ordered The Weeknd and lead actress Lily-Rose Depp to perform a steamy scene. The incident left even the crew members bewildered and confused. This scene was intended to be included in episode 4 of The Idol, but was ultimately cut.
Details from crew members shared with Page Six revealed that the scene involved the character Jocelyn (played by Lily-Rose Depp) being coerced by Tedros (The Weeknd). The intimate scene was filmed in The Weeknd’s luxurious bathroom in Bel Air. At that moment, Levinson insisted that the lead actors perform the scene and was very meticulous in directing them.
Jocelyn being pressured in a sensitive scene
The representative shared with Page Six that the scene was cut from The Idol, as Levinson reviewed the main actors through the lens and later softened the scene for The Weeknd with lines such as, “You belong with me.” This scene was intended to lead to Jocelyn having a child, but it was cut due to several changes in the script and narrative.
Lily-Rose Depp revealed that during the filming of the sensitive scene, she felt vulnerable but remained focused on the film’s overall purpose. The Weeknd exhibited many concerning behaviors towards the lead actress; however, fortunately, it was just acting and nothing inappropriate occurred.
Cut scene featuring Jocelyn
Despite the controversies and widespread criticism, The Idol has achieved considerable success, being noted for the highest viewership ratings since its debut on HBO, surpassing even Netflix’s hit Wednesday and the video game adaptation The Last of Us. Coming soon, episode 5 is expected to be the final episode of The Idol, and currently, the team has not confirmed whether a second season will be produced.
