The first official teaser has been released forHBO’sThe Idol, a new series created by singer-songwriter The Weeknd andEuphoriashowrunner Sam Levinson. The series stars Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd and is set in the world of the L.A. music industry.
The Idolwas first announced last July by The Weeknd, one of theHBOshow’s creators, who will also serve as executive producer and co-star. The Weeknd played the teaser at one of his concerts, and it was subsequently posted online for audiences everywhere to see.
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The teaser opens with a montage of topless women, copious drug use, and cult-member orgies over pulsing music, while on-screen text promises “the sleaziest love story in all of Hollywood.” The so-called lovers are an up-and-coming pop star (played by Lily-Rose Depp) who gets involved with a self-help guru and cult leader (played by The Weeknd). Their toxic, lust-filled romance is set in the backdrop of the Los Angeles music industry, with all its debauchery. HBO is producing the show, “from the sick and twisted minds” of its co-creators, includingEuphoria’sLevinson. It’s not surprising, as the subscription-based HBO has long been free from television censorship. In recent years nudity-filled shows have become a part of their brand image, withseries such asGame of ThronesandEuphoria.
Lily-Rose Depp (The King,A Faithful Man) heads up the cast list as the female lead. She has recently been in the public eye because of her father Johnny Depp’s defamationtrial against ex-wife Amber Heard. One of the focal points of the trial was an audio recording of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard arguing outside Lily-Rose Depp’s home. Other major roles in the series will be filled by pop singer Troye Sivan, singer and actor Debby Ryan (Insatiable), Rachel Sennott (Shiva Baby), Steve Zissis (Baghead,Togetherness), Hari Nef (Transparent), and first-timer Juliebeth Gonzalez.
Another big name is also drawing attention. Eagle-eyed viewers have spotted K-Pop sensation Jennie from BLACKPINK, one of the biggest bands in the world, standing next to Lily-Rose Depp in one shot of the trailer. For about a month, rumors have been circulating that Jennie was offered a role in the series, and this new trailer seems to confirm it. From her prominence in the shot, it seems that she will be at least a recurring side character, though her role has not yet been announced. Although it is very common for K-Pop idols tostar in TV series in South Korea, this will be the first time a major star from the country will appear in a U.S. TV series.
