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| Jennie of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK / Korea Times file |
By Dong Sun-hwa
The HBO drama series, "The Idol," which marked the acting debut of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK's Jennie, will wrap up a week earlier than planned, according to U.S. media outlets.
The music drama was supposed to be a six-part series, but it was revealed Sunday (local time) that the upcoming fifth episode will be the season finale. The final episode titled, "Jocelyn Forever," will hit the air on July 2.
The rationale behind the early termination is unknown, but the drama's story has changed significantly after Sam Levinson joined, according to TV Line. After director Amy Seimetz exited, Levinson ― best known for his teen drama series, "Euphoria" ― took over the role and created the series along with the Weeknd (Tesfaye) and Reza Fahim.
It remains unclear if the series will be back for a second season. Some reports claimed that the renewal had been canceled, but HBO denied this on Twitter, June 16.
"It is being misreported that a decision on a second season of 'The Idol' has been determined," it said. "It has not, and we look forward to sharing the next episode with you Sunday night."
"The Idol," which premiered in June, revolves around a pop idol named Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp). As she attempts to revive her career after experiencing a nervous breakdown, she gets entangled in a complex relationship with Tedros (the Weeknd or Tesfaye), a mysterious club owner in Los Angeles.
Jennie assumes the role of Dyanne, one of Jocelyn's backup dancers. Thanks to "The Idol," the K-pop star attended the official screening schedules at the 76th Cannes Film Festival, May 22.
Anticipation had been palpable ahead of the drama's premiere thanks to its star-studded lineup, but it soon faced backlash due to explicit sex scenes. Its viewership ratings have been modest as well, with the story being criticized for being flat.
