Korean Netizens React To Viral The Weeknd Clip From “The Idol”
HBO Max’s new drama series, The Idol, has attracted significant attention recently, albeit for all the wrong reasons. The show, starring Lily-Rose Depp as an aspiring pop idol and Abel Tesfaye (known to most as The Weeknd) as a controversial self-help guru and cult leader, has been plagued with scathing reviews and criticisms since its premiere three weeks ago. Now, Tesfaye’s performance in particular is taking center stage in the court of public opinion, further intensifying the drama surrounding the series.
The plot intrigue and inclusion of K-Pop superstar, Jennie from BLACKPINK, initially generated considerable excitement among global audiences. However, the anticipation turned sour as allegations of objectification of women, on-set toxicity, and exploitation emerged. Renowned publications like Vanity Fair, The Hollywood Reporter, and Rolling Stone have not shied away from expressing their disappointment, contributing to the show’s deteriorating public image.
Jennie scene for today for The Idol🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/ofFGMzm3nd
— nini96 (@jennieforever96) June 19, 2023
In the most recent episode, a clip of Tesfaye’s character intimidating a male employee during a shopping scene became a hot topic among netizens, sparking another round of critiques. The video clip, shared on popular Korean forum TheQoo, has since gone viral, garnering over 78,000 views and 300 comments.
how is he not humiliated pic.twitter.com/mW8ky0iLeQ
— alex 💭 ⁷ (@nothnghppens) June 19, 2023
Several Korean netizens expressed their disapproval of Tesfaye’s acting prowess. Comments like, “I really can’t listen to The Weeknd’s songs anymore,” and “Omg the comments are hilarious af,” were prevalent. One commenter remarked, “It’d do better if Jun Hyun Moo parodies it,” referencing the famous Korean TV personality known for his comedic imitations. Another wrote, “I don’t know English, so if even I can tell he can’t act well, how bad is his acting.”
Netizens also pointed out peculiarities in Tesfaye’s portrayal of his character, such as his habit of “pushing his bottom lips out.” An observation that echoed wider criticism was the suggestion that the show’s reputation might have been salvaged if all episodes were released simultaneously, allowing the audience to evaluate the series in its entirety rather than on a week-to-week basis, “They would’ve gotten mocked less if they just released it all at once.. They get made fun of for something new every weekㅋㅋㅋ
The Idol’s struggles highlight an important reality in the entertainment industry: big names and intriguing plot lines may not necessarily translate into success, particularly when the execution fails to meet audience expectations. It remains to be seen if the show will manage to overcome these early tribulations and turn the tide in its favor, or if it will continue struggling to find its footing amidst public ridicule.
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