Viewers React To Confusing & Controversial Finale Of ‘The Idol’

The Idol was a cautionary tale – just not the one that HBO had in mind. The show was supposed to be about the impossible challenges of pursuing art and the constant calculations that are performed to progress within the entertainment industry, but the series, which is reportedly uncertain to continue with a second season, is instead an example of how TV executives can make mistakes betting and doubling down on up-and-coming artists despite behind-the-scenes drama.

Twitter user @matyrculture perhaps summed it up best by pointing out that creator Sam Levinson, who is also the creator of the TV series Euphoria, controversially replaced Amy Seimetz as director, leading to significant reshoots and “a new creative direction.”

Later, Rolling Stone came out with a report in which a production member said, “It was like any rape fantasy that any toxic man would have in the show – and then the woman comes back for more because it makes her music better.”

Another source referred to it as “sexual torture porn” with exploitative scenes of sexual violence.

Caution, spoilers ahead!

Viewers were also left disappointed after Sunday night’s finale with many taking to social media to voice their reactions.

Several mentioned the sudden change in Jocelyn’s (Lily-Rose Depp) feelings toward cult leader Tedros (Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye, who has received criticism for his questionable acting). After weeks of Jocelyn falling apart and being seduced by Tedros, the finale sees the protagonist stand up to him and somehow make his cult followers loyal to her.

Below are more fan reactions to the finale: