The Weeknd Reflects on Mental Health, 'The Idol,' and Future as Abel Tesfaye

The artist opens up about a mental breakdown, his upcoming album and film, and a potential shift away from his stage persona.

The Weeknd, also known as Abel Tesfaye, revealed that a mental breakdown during his 2022 tour inspired his upcoming album 'Hurry Up Tomorrow,' releasing January 24.
The breakdown was triggered by overwhelming self-imposed pressure, including balancing an international tour and filming the controversial HBO series 'The Idol.'
Tesfaye is considering retiring his stage name, 'The Weeknd,' as he feels he has achieved all he can under the persona and wants to pivot creatively.
'The Idol,' which received significant backlash and was canceled after one season, remains a project Tesfaye says he is proud of despite acknowledging it could have been presented differently.
The artist will also star in a suspense thriller film tied to 'Hurry Up Tomorrow,' set for release on May 16, alongside Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan.