HBO series The Idol, created by Sam Levinson and Abel ‘The Weeknd Tesfaye and Reza Fahim, has been called off after one season with the American cable network pulling the plug on the show on Monday.

“The Idol was one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response,” said a spokesperson for HBO to US entertainment magazine Variety, adding, “After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers have decided not to move forward with a second season.”

The Idol’s first season concluded after only five episodes, shortened from the originally planned six-episode run on July 2. The series featured Dan Levy, BLACKPINK’s Jennie, Rachel Sennott, Hari Nef, Hank Azaria, Jane Adams and Da ‘Vine Joy Randolph.

The drama series follows the real-life-inspired story of a famous pop singer who is determined to be the ‘greatest and sexiest pop star in America’. She has her passions reignited by a nightclub owner-turned-cult leader with a troubled past.

The series made negative headlines for months ahead of its June 4 premiere. From the exit of a director and cast member and major reshoots at a new location – the buzz surrounding the show had been mostly negative. The HBO and A24 drama premiered amidst controversies surrounding how the show was overhauled after director Amy Seimetz left the project.