The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye) responded to a Rolling Stone report about his HBO show in a video on Instagram and Twitter. The article cited 13 sources on the set of the drama, which was helmed by Euphoria creator Sam Levinson and stars Lily-Rose Depp, calling it a “sh*tshow” that went “disgustingly off the rails.”
While some critics claim the series has turned into a “sexual torture p*rn,” others are arguing that the storyline has shifted away from a cult-like theme to one about abusive Hollywood culture and a woman’s struggle with her sexuality. The Weeknd, who co-created the show with Levinson, appears to have misunderstood how the show was supposed to be filmed, a source tells the magazine.
The Weeknd isn’t having it
The premise of the show follows troubled pop star Jocelyn (Depp) as she struggles with her identity and falls under the influence of a cult leader, Tedros, played by Tesfaye. The rapper and singer-songwriter, whose music is influenced by his experiences growing up in a gangster family, is one of several prominent musicians in the show, alongside Jennie from Blackpink and Troye Sivan.
However, a new report in Rolling Stone suggests that the show has been going off the rails since production began two years ago. It cites 13 sources who describe chaotic set conditions, reshoots, and last-minute script changes.
According to the article, the show was initially aimed at showing how a female artist finds her way into the male-dominated industry, but after the creative conflict between Seimetz and Tesfaye in April 2022, Levinson took over as director and reshot most of the show, leading to extensive delays and budgetary concerns. He then reshaped the show’s ethos, adding more violent and graphic content and undercutting the original message of the show about abused Hollywood culture.
What a critique!
This, experts believe, is a huge mistake and could damage the reputation of the show. Fortunately, The Weeknd and his team have responded to the criticism by taking a strong stance against it.
He responded by sharing a clip on Instagram and Twitter, featuring a scene in which a publicist pitches Depp’s character Jocelyn for a cover shoot with the publication and Tedros shuts her down. He also posted a picture of himself with Depp and captioned the post, “@rollingstone did we upset you?”
In addition to responding to rolling stone, The Weeknd has been sharing teaser clips for the upcoming show on Instagram and Twitter. He also shared two past covers for the magazine.
What do you think?
The show has been a hot topic, especially because the alleged sex scenes in it have garnered controversy. It is based on the true story of Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd, and stars Depp as Jocelyn and Tesfaye as Tedros, who runs a shady nightclub in Los Angeles.
