The Weeknd Claims He Forgot How To Sing After Method Acting For “The Idol”

Abel Tesfaye, known as the multi-Grammy winning R&B fusion artist The Weeknd, is making his producing debut in Max’s “The Idol.” Following the show’s debut at Cannes, the artist revealed that he took method acting so far that he “forgot how to sing” and had to cancel his first show as the Weeknd in the history of his career. This comes after Tesfaye recently announced his plan to “kill the Weeknd”, opting to perform under his true persona instead.

https://t.co/S9DMRmsdRS

— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) May 23, 2023

The show places Tesfaye in his first starring role, after making several appearances in “Uncut Gems” and “American Dad!” and “The Simpsons.” The musician turned actor will portray a fictional self-help cult leader named Tedros in the Sam Levinson-directed series. Tesfaye’s character begins a complicated relationship with pop star Jocelyn (Lily Rose Depp). The first two episodes earned a five minute standing ovation at Cannes, but the court of public opinion has other thoughts.

After 13 crew members came forward to Rolling Stone months ago with allegations of unethical working conditions and a sexually violent script, viewers are already shy of watching the program. Director-writer Sam Levinson, notably of Euphoria, continued to defend the show’s creative choices at a Cannes press conference.

Is Sam Levinson's portrayal of female sexuality revolutionary or is it taken too far? "Sometimes things that might be revolutionary are taken too far," he says." https://t.co/HWTIBTeCkO #Cannes pic.twitter.com/EIq0mg4rXi

— Variety (@Variety) May 23, 2023

Online Reactions To The Weeknd’s Statement

Many took Tesfaye’s comments to be an attempt at validating the quality of “The Idol.” The show has been criticized by both critics and onlookers alike, with several referring to the plot as an “abuse fantasy.” The show also received a 20% on Rotten Tomatoes, decreasing to a 9% from critics.

‘The Idol’ debuts with a score of 20% on Rotten Tomatoes. pic.twitter.com/HwHIxlWtaa

— Pop Base (@PopBase) May 23, 2023

Aside from the controversial content, the accelerated writing and shooting schedule in wake of writer Amy Seimetz’ replacement has some questioning the quality of the show.

His ego is out of control. He has one acting credit and now is being a diva. ???????????????? These clout chasing “singers” really are fame hungry.

— Albie (Housewives & Madonna Super Fan) (@_MANDONNA_) May 23, 2023

Others are drawing comparisons to another artist who recently bowed out of performing mid-show. Frank Ocean cancelled his second Coachella performance after a convoluted set on the first day.

https://twitter.com/iconicarisan/status/1661039328565264385?s=20

Many feel that the Weeknd’s statements surrounding “The Idol” are excessive, given that it is his first major acting and producing credit.

oh does he think he’s an A list actor now pic.twitter.com/yTcsu8nXFW

— vic ! (@90sfatal) May 23, 2023

Moviegoers continue to criticize method acting after Austin Butler continues to speak in an Elvis Presley accent after portraying the late legend in Baz Luhrman’s “Elvis” biopic. Some feel that The Weeknd may be entering similar territory.