Challenges in the Life of The Weeknd in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of The Weeknd. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, professionally known as The Weeknd, is a highly acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter and actor. He has garnered significant recognition throughout his career, evidenced by his impressive collection of awards. These include four Grammy Awards, 20 Billboard Music Awards, 22 Juno Awards, six American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, and a Latin Grammy Award. Furthermore, he has received nominations for both an Academy Award and a Primetime Emmy Award, demonstrating his versatility and impact across different entertainment mediums.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

January 2015: Arrest in Las Vegas

In January 2015, Tesfaye was arrested for allegedly punching a police officer in Las Vegas after police intervened to break up a fight. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to complete fifty hours of community service.

December 2015: The Weeknd Sued by Cutting Edge Music

In December 2015, The Weeknd was sued by Cutting Edge Music, alleging that the bassline for "The Hills" was taken from the film The Machine.

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September 2018: The Weeknd and Daft Punk sued for "Starboy" rhythm

In September 2018, The Weeknd and Daft Punk were sued for allegedly stealing the rhythm for "Starboy" from Ethiopian poet and singer-songwriter Yasminah.

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January 2019: Criticism for Lyrics in "Lost in the Fire"

In January 2019, The Weeknd faced criticism for some of the lyrics in his and Gesaffelstein's single "Lost in the Fire", which were accused of being homophobic and fetishizing bisexuality.

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April 2019: Tesfaye sued for copyright infringement over "A Lonely Night"

In April 2019, Tesfaye was sued by William Smith, Brian Clover, and Scott McCulloch, who accused Tesfaye of copyright infringement from plagiarizing their song "I Need to Love" in order to create his song "A Lonely Night".

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August 2019: Lawsuit over "A Lonely Night" dismissed

In August 2019, the lawsuit against Tesfaye regarding "A Lonely Night" was dismissed via summary judgment, with the option to amend.

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September 2019: Amended claim filed in "A Lonely Night" lawsuit

In September 2019, the plaintiffs filed an amended claim based on secondary infringement regarding the song "A Lonely Night", which is still in litigation.

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February 2020: The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar sued by Yeasayer

In February 2020, The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar were sued by Yeasayer, claiming that "Pray for Me" includes an unauthorized sample of their song "Sunrise".

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September 2021: Tesfaye sued for copyright infringement over "Call Out My Name"

In September 2021, Tesfaye, Nicolás Jaar, and Frank Dukes were sued for copyright infringement by Suniel Fox and Henry Strange, claiming "Call Out My Name" is similar to their 2015 track "Vibeking".

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March 1, 2023: Rolling Stone exposé on The Idol

On March 1, 2023, Rolling Stone published an exposé detailing the alleged toxic working environment on the set of The Idol, an HBO drama series co-created and starring Tesfaye. The article cited concerns over the show's graphic sexual content and a creative overhaul that shifted the series' focus, resulting in a controversy and backlash.

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August 28, 2023: HBO cancels The Idol after one season

On August 28, 2023, HBO announced it had cancelled The Weeknd's show "The Idol" after one season, following significant controversy and negative reviews.

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