The daily gossip: HBO cancels controversial show 'The Idol,' 'Bachelorette' contestant Josh Seiter is alive after statement announced his death, and more

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 Abel 'The Weeknd' Tesfaye, Lily-Rose Depp and Sam Levinson
An HBO spokesperson said the network was "pleased by the strong audience response" to the show.
(Image credit: Stephane Cardinale - Corbis / Corbis via Getty Images)

1. HBO cancels controversial show 'The Idol'

Tedros, we hardly knew ye. HBO has canceled Sam Levinson's controversial drama series "The Idol" after one season. "'The Idol' was one of HBO's most provocative original programs, and we're pleased by the strong audience response," an HBO spokesperson insisted to Deadline. "After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers, have decided not to move forward with a second season." This is despite the fact that star Da'Vine Joy Randolph previously told Vulture that "it's everyone's desire and intention to do a season two." But the graphic, at times shocking show starring Lily-Rose Depp as a pop singer was slammed as "sexual torture porn," and critics weren't exactly impressed with The Weeknd's acting, either. Levinson can now get back to his previous job: enraging "Euphoria" fans.

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Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.