The Weeknd Grateful Sam Levinson Came On to Fix ‘The Idol’ Despite Report

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The Weeknd‘s new HBO present is getting dragged after a report instructed the manufacturing is in shambles — however sources inform TMZ issues are literally fairly the alternative, and Abel’s really fairly happy.

Production sources for “The Idol” — which has been a piece in progress for almost 2 years now — inform TMZ that the Rolling Stone story that got here out Wednesday about “Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson‘s involvement isn’t a good illustration of how the lead star of the sequence feels … which we’re advised is optimistic and grateful.

Our sources inform us that no person who talked to RS — upwards of 13 sources, they declare — has seen the ultimate product … regardless of studies of reshoots involving oversexualized and/or “torture porn” scenes that includes Lily-Rose Depp and Abel, amongst different forged members.

In different phrases, we’re advised to counsel these scenes are going to make it within the remaining minimize is deceptive.

Fact is … we’re advised Levinson was introduced on to change OG director Amy Seimetz for a cause — and that he has crafted an grownup story with mature components … what Abel and present creators had envisioned from the start.

Our sources say The Weeknd and others felt the present was not in a great place earlier than SL got here aboard to “right the ship” — which we’re advised a majority of the forged/crew really feel he did with success, regardless of how edgy a number of the materials they might have shot has been to this point.

As RS notes of their piece, Levinson utterly redid Amy’s work … bringing on new actors — like Dan Levy, Hank Azaria and Jennie from BLACKPINK — spliced in a brand new script with a special approach and employed a extra sturdy taking pictures schedule too … which our sources insist have elevated the artwork and which can make for a greater product when it lastly hits the service.

There’s additionally a significant false impression, we’re advised, about an alleged notion that Weeknd felt the OG model of “The Idol” was too targeted on a feminine perspective … which is one thing that was floated in Rolling Stone. We’re advised he does not really feel that means in any respect — if something, the entire present is a couple of lady who desires to management her personal narrative in showbiz.

Another factor … our sources say the declare that the price range hit shut to $80 million is “nowhere near” correct. In different phrases, the reshoots weren’t that costly.

As for Lily-Rose, she says … “Sam is, for so many reasons, the best director I have ever worked with. Never have I felt more supported or respected in a creative space, my input and opinions more valued. Working with Sam is a true collaboration in every way – it matters to him, more than anything, not only what his actors think about the work, but how we feel performing it. He hires people whose work he esteems and has always created an environment in which I felt seen, heard, and appreciated.” That backs The Weeknd’s view.

HBO themselves have weighed in too, confirming the unique path “The Idol” was stepping into wasn’t up to their requirements, and that they are proud of the place Levinson’s taken it to this point.

Despite any ideas of a twisted, degenerate office — as described by RS — they add … “Throughout the process, the creative team has been committed to creating a safe, collaborative, and mutually respectful working environment, and last year, the team made creative changes they felt were in the best interest of both the production and the cast and crew. We look forward to sharing ‘The Idol’ with audiences soon.”