Lily-Rose Depp Defends Sam Levinson and Their Collaboration on HBO’s The Idol

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Jan 9

Lily-Rose Depp passionately defends Sam Levinson and her experience working on HBO’s controversial The Idol, calling it one of the most impactful periods of her life.

Lily-Rose Depp, the star of HBO’s provocative The Idol, has spoken out in defense of her collaborator and series creator, Sam Levinson, amidst the critical backlash and controversy surrounding the show. During a candid appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Depp offered an impassioned response to the negative press that plagued The Idol and its creative team, reflecting on her personal experiences and the artistic integrity behind the project.

Levinson, who also helmed HBO’s hit series Euphoria, faced widespread criticism for the narrative and execution of The Idol, a drama chronicling the life of Jocelyn (Depp), an aspiring pop star entangled in a complex and destructive romance with a self-help guru played by The Weeknd. Despite a troubled production that included the departure of director Amy Seimetz and significant reshoots, Depp expressed unwavering support for Levinson, calling him “a great friend” and likening him to family.

“The thing that sucked about that was having people talk shit about Sam,” Depp shared on the podcast. “He’s an incredible person, so kind, and someone who really took me under his wing. The things people said about him as a filmmaker couldn’t be further from my experience.” She praised Levinson’s willingness to embrace the show’s divisive nature, noting that he “always knew it was going to be controversial” and was driven by a commitment to bold, challenging storytelling.

Depp’s Defense of The Idol

Depp went on to emphasize the personal growth she experienced during the production of The Idol, describing it as a transformative chapter in her career and life. “I was pushed so far out of my comfort zone in the most beautiful way,” she said, reflecting on the show’s demanding nature and the risks involved in portraying Jocelyn. “It gave me so much growth, and I will always look back on that as one of the most special times of my life.”

While The Idol received widespread criticism for its controversial themes, truncated episode count, and eventual cancellation after just one season, Depp expressed pride in the work she and the cast created. She also defended Levinson against allegations of mismanagement, asserting that the filmmaker’s approach was far from the narrative painted by detractors.

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“The criticism hurt, mostly because it targeted Sam, who is so dedicated to his craft,” Depp remarked. “It’s tough to hear those things about someone you deeply respect and care about.” Despite the series’ turbulent reception, Depp maintained that she “loved” the project, her character, and the creative collaboration.

A Complicated Legacy

The Idol stirred heated debate among critics and audiences alike, with some praising its ambition while others dismissed it as exploitative and incoherent. Following extensive delays and a reduction in its episode order, the series was ultimately canceled. However, for Depp, the experience remains a highlight of her career.

Levinson, known for his polarizing but visually arresting style, has consistently sparked conversations with his work, and The Idol proved no exception. Depp’s public defense underscores the deep connection and trust she felt working under his direction, as well as the creative challenges she embraced during the production.

Though The Idol may be remembered as a controversial footnote in HBO’s programming history, Depp’s reflections highlight the often-overlooked personal growth and artistic ambition that come from working on divisive projects.

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