‘The Idol’ Gets 5 Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes Premiere

The Cannes Film Festival witnessed an extraordinary event as the world premiere of Sam Levinson’s HBO original drama series, The Idol, took center stage. Starring the talented Lily-Rose Depp and co-created by the multitalented Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye, the show garnered immense praise from an audience that included some of the industry’s biggest names.

Celebrities such as BLACKPINK’s Jennie Kim, Troye Sivan, Ashley Levinson, Rachel Sennott, Sophie Mudd, Moses Sumney, Hari Nef, Julia Fox, Travis Scott, Stella Maxwell, and many more graced the red carpet at the Grand Théâtre Lumière, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. The premiere was met with excitement and anticipation, and it didn’t disappoint.

The Idol dives deep into the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry, drawing parallels to notorious celebrity breakdowns like the one experienced by Britney Spears. With its gripping narrative and daring subject matter, the HBO series made a powerful impact during its packed gala screening. The first two episodes explored themes of revenge porn, manipulation, and the ugly side of Hollywood sycophants, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Director Sam Levinson expressed his gratitude for being at the esteemed Cannes festival, describing the experience as a dream come true. The collaboration between Levinson and Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye, known for his work on the acclaimed series “Euphoria,” proved to be a winning formula. Lily-Rose Depp delivers a mesmerizing performance as a pop phenom grappling with a traumatic loss, and the supporting cast, including Jane Adams, Hank Azaria, and Eli Roth, portray bloodsucking handlers with captivating intensity.

In a serendipitous encounter at a seedy Hollywood dance spot, Depp’s character meets Tesfaye’s character, Tedros, who becomes her confidant and reveals ambitious plans for both their futures. Tedros, a modern-day cult leader, is portrayed with magnetic allure by Tesfaye. The series also boasts a talented supporting cast, including Suzanna Son, Troye Sivan, Dan Levy, Rachel Sennott, and more, who deliver stellar performances that further elevate the narrative.

The Idol captivated the audience at Cannes, eliciting a five-minute standing ovation that echoed the immense impact the series had made. With its fearless exploration of fame, manipulation, and personal growth, The Idol solidified its position as a groundbreaking series that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions.

As the first TV show to officially debut at Cannes, The Idol left an indelible mark on the festival, captivating industry insiders and audiences alike. With its stellar cast, thought-provoking storytelling, and masterful direction, the series promises to be an unforgettable addition to the world of television.