Provocative and Unapologetic: Lily-Rose Depp Stands Firmly Behind The Idol's Controversial & Graphic Sex Scenes

The Idol actor Lily-Rose Depp has no qualms about the explicit sex scenes in the controversial HBO show. The series follows Depp's character Jocelyn, a former pop star striving to regain her status in the music industry. She embarks on a romantic relationship with a self-proclaimed cult leader named Tedros (played by Abel Tesfaye, also known as The Weeknd). The show, created by Sam Levinson, also features Suzanna Son, Rachel Sennott, and well-known musicians The Weeknd, Troye Sivan, and Moses Sumney. Despite HBO originally ordering six episodes, the first season will conclude with episode 5, "Jocelyn Forever." While there are rumors of cancellation, the possibility of a second season remains uncertain.

During a recent interview with Vogue Australia, Depp defended the controversial aspect of The Idol - its explicit sexual content. She acknowledged that the show may not appeal to everyone because of its provocative nature. Depp reassured that both the cast and crew were fully aware of the show's explicitness. Despite the graphic scenes, she expressed feeling secure on set while filming The Idol. Read Depp's complete statement below:

“We are fully aware that we are creating provocative content and we have no intention of shying away from that. It was my explicit goal from the beginning to make something that challenges societal norms. I had no interest in creating something overly conservative. It’s perfectly alright if this show does not resonate with everyone, as I believe the best art is often polarizing. I have never felt more respected and secure on a set than I do now. The trust we have all established between each other, including you [referring to Troye Sivan], Sam Levinson, Abel, and myself, creates an incredibly safe and comfortable working environment. Therefore, when it comes to the nudity and the daring nature of the role, it was a deliberate choice. It was something I deemed important and was enthusiastic about tackling. I am not afraid of it. In a world that is highly sexualized, I find it intriguing to explore such themes.”

A Look Into The Controversy Behind The Idol’s Graphic Scenes

Depp emphasized the crucial role of The Idol's intimacy coordinators, referring to them as "essential" members of the crew who ensure that "everyone's covered." While it is undeniably important to have intimacy coordinators and other team members promoting safety on set, this attentiveness does not necessarily reflect how viewers perceive The Idol. The series has faced criticism for its explicit nudity and sexual content, with some labeling it as "torture porn."

Discussing The Idol's explicit sexual content requires acknowledging the role of its creator and director, Levinson. In his previous work, Euphoria, Levinson demonstrated his lack of hesitation in showcasing excessive and often unnecessary sex and nudity. This aspect received criticism in Euphoria and has only intensified in The Idol, where extended and unappealing sex scenes, the longest of which lasts ten minutes, are prominently featured.

While Depp is not the first Idol star to defend the show, The Weeknd has previously argued that the explicit scenes are intended as satire rather than being intended to arouse. With both the cast and creator defending the show's sexual content, the controversy and public perception surrounding The Idol only serve to further elevate its popularity.

Source: Vogue Australia