Euphoria creator’s canceled HBO show with 19% on Rotten Tomatoes scored an Emmy nod, so… believe in yourself, guys

Sam Levinson’s The Idol wasn’t so euphoric

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Sam Levinson’s controversial HBO drama seriesThe Idolhas received a 2024 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming, despite its low 19% Rotten Tomatoes score.

The nomination is in reference to Nina McNeely’s choreography for the show’s rehearsal music video shoot, which is led by troubled pop star Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) and her backup dancers, including Blackpink’s Jennie Kim.

The Idolcaused a scandal at the Cannes Film Festival and continued to stir up controversy when it debuted on one ofthe best streaming servicesin June 2023 with its overtly sexual and violent scenes. HBO ultimately decided to cancel the show after one season, with a spokesperson tellingPopsugarat the time: “The Idolwas one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response. After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers, have decided not to move forward with a second season. We’re grateful to the creators, cast and crew for their incredible work.”

Levinson is known to push boundaries in his projects, most notably in his hard-hitting teen drama seriesEuphoria,which won nine Emmy Awards and became a huge cultural phenomenon. But whether Levinson’s efforts withThe Idolwill earn him another Emmy win remains to be seen on September 15.

What is The Idol about?

Co-created by Levinson, Abel Tesfaye – AKA The Weeknd – and Reza Fahim,The Idolfollows pop idol Jocelyn (Depp) who resolves to become the greatest star in the USA after having a nervous breakdown. She then starts a complex relationship with Tedros (The Weeknd), a sleazy night club owner and cult leader who offers larger ambitions for Jocelyn’s career.

The Idolalso stars Rachel Sennott (Bottoms), Dan Levy (Schitt’s Creek), Da’Vine Joy Randolph (The Holdovers), Hank Azaria (The Simpsons), Troye Sivan (Trolls Band Together), Moses Sumney (MaXXXine), Hari Nef (Barbie)and Suzanna Son (Red Rocket).

The drama will be facing tough competition in the scripted series category, withOnly Murders in the Buildingchoreographer John Carrafa,Palm Royalechoreographer Brooke Lipton andPhysicalchoreographer Jennifer Hamilton all up for the Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming.

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Speaking about the nomination,The Idolchoreographer McNeely said in a statement: “I’m beyond honored and grateful for this nomination. Thank you to Sam, Abel, Lily and everyone involved for their trust and the opportunity to work on such a special project.”

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After graduating with a degree in Writing and Film Studies, Grace dived into the world of entertainment where she started writing all about the must-watch shows and movies at What To Watch. Now Grace is on her next writing adventure at TechRadar, where she uses her expertise to help readers keep up to date on the biggest TV shows and movies in the ever-changing world of streaming. If she’s not writing about her passion for entertainment, you’ll find her watching reality shows while feasting on chocolate.

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