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BLACKPINK Jennie’s “The Idol” Sparks Controversy Even After Being Canceled

BLACKPINK Jennie’s “The Idol” Sparks Controversy Even After Being Canceled

Even though “The Idol” was canceled after just one season, it still received an Emmy nomination and might even win

Produced by HBO, “The Idol” stars Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye, Lily-Rose Depp (Johnny Depp’s daughter), and BLACKPINK Jennie. The show was nominated for Outstanding Choreography at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards.

Choreographer Nina McNeely, who worked on “The Idol,” has a track record with stars like Rihanna, Björk, Sam Smith, Nick Jonas, and Foo Fighters. In 2021, she was nominated for an MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography for Foo Fighters’ “Shame Shame”. Her repeated collaborations with The Weeknd were a key reason for her role in “The Idol.”

The cancellation and criticism of “The Idol” probably caught HBO and choreographer Nina McNeely off guard. From Nina’s perspective, “The Idol” is still a unique show that covers stories not often explored on screen. However, she also believes the timing of the show was off. 

There’s a chance that viewers might see it differently in the future. Thanks to the show, Nina McNeely received a Primetime Emmy nomination, marking a significant achievement. “The Idol” might even outshine other nominees like “Only Murders in the Building,” “Palm Royale,” and “Physical” at the awards ceremony in mid-September.

While the recognition for the choreographer could boost “The Idol” reputation, overall, the show is still viewed as an unfortunate work in the careers of those involved, including Jennie. Jennie and Lily-Rose Depp delivered provocative dance performances, and Jennie’s role was notable for its unusual and sometimes sensitive actions and dialogue.

The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards will be broadcast live from the LA Live Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, September 15 (local time).