Challenges in the Life of The Weeknd in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 27, 2025

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

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, known as The Weeknd, is a Canadian singer-songwriter, record producer, and actor prominent for his tenor vocal range and alternative R&B sound. His success is evidenced by numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Juno Awards, American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and a Latin Grammy Award, marking his significant impact on the music industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

January 2015: Arrest in Las Vegas

In January 2015, The Weeknd was arrested for allegedly punching a police officer in Las Vegas after being taken into an elevator to break up a fight. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to complete fifty hours of community service.

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

In January 2019, The Weeknd received criticism for lyrics in his single "Lost in the Fire" with Gesaffelstein, with some accusing the song of being homophobic and fetishizing bisexuality.

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February 2020: Copyright Lawsuit for "Pray for Me"

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

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September 2021: Copyright Infringement Lawsuit for "Call Out My Name"

In September 2021, The Weeknd, Nicolás Jaar, and Frank Dukes were sued for copyright infringement by Suniel Fox and Henry Strange, who claimed that "Call Out My Name" was strikingly similar to their 2015 track "Vibeking".

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July 8, 2022: Record Surpassed on Billboard Hot R&B Songs Chart

On July 8, 2022, The Weeknd's record for the most number-one songs on the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart was surpassed by Chris Brown, who broke Weeknd's record with eight more songs.

March 1, 2023: Rolling Stone Exposé on "The Idol" Set

On March 1, 2023, Rolling Stone released an exposé detailing the toxic working conditions on the set of the HBO drama series "The Idol", which The Weeknd co-created and starred in. The series was criticized for its graphic sexual content.

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August 28, 2023: "The Idol" Cancelled by HBO

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

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May 2025: Release of "Hurry Up Tomorrow" Companion Film and Negative Reviews

In May 2025, the companion film Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025), starring The Weeknd and Jenna Ortega and directed by Trey Edward Shults, was released and widely criticized by critics.

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