Debate continues around Blackpink’s Jennie’s participation in HBO’s series “The Idol.” Some fans have questioned the necessity of her appearance in the show, while others believe the level of exposure is justifiable.
The third episode, “Daybreak,” of “The Idol” premiered on HBO on the 18th, sparking further debate. Jennie, who plays the role of Diane, a backup dancer for pop star Jocelyn (played by Lily-Rose Depp), made a brief 30-second appearance. Compared to her previous 10-minute stint on an earlier episode, this was a considerable reduction in airtime.
However, her third appearance garnered controversy due to a suggestive dance routine. Jennie, dressed in revealing attire, performed a dance routine in a music video center while Joselyn was out spending time with Ted Ross (played by The Weeknd). During this routine, a male dancer appeared to touch Jennie in an inappropriate manner.
Jennie had previously drawn criticism in the first episode, where she performed a dance routine with a male dancer that implied sexual relations. Now, with the second suggestive dance routine, critics of “The Idol” are voicing their concerns louder than ever.
The significant reduction in Jennie’s airtime compared to previous episodes has also become an issue. Some have pointed out that “The Idol” is capitalizing on Jennie’s sexualized image for noise marketing.
The series has been criticized for its explicit content since it was first unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival. Film critic Roger Friedman from Showbiz 411 described it as “grim, disgusting, and low, filled with nonsensical recycled ideas and pornographic sex,” while David Fear from Rolling Stone said it’s “horrible, brutal, and much worse than you’d expect.”
Evening Standard’s Joanne Timassi also criticized the series, saying, “Despite the charm of Lily-Rose Depp, we have come to realize that ‘The Idol’ lacks sexiness. Instead, it is vulgar.”
“The Idol,” set in the music industry of Los Angeles, is a tale of pop star Jocelyn’s journey through the music world and love story. Sam Levinson, the director of the drama “Euphoria,” directed and wrote the script for the series, which stars Lily-Rose Depp, The Weeknd, Troye Sivan, and Blackpink’s Jennie.
