The Weeknd Tells All Why He’s Retiring His Stage Name and Leaving His Iconic Persona Behind
5 days ago Content WriterAbel Tesfaye, known globally as The Weeknd, has made the shocking decision to retire his iconic stage name after his upcoming album and film, Hurry Up Tomorrow. This announcement has stunned fans worldwide, leaving them eagerly anticipating the release of his final project under the The Weeknd persona. Tesfaye revealed in an exclusive Variety interview on January 10, 2025, that after 15 years of success, he’s ready to step away from the stage name that has defined his career.
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ToggleBreaking Free from the Rat Race: Tesfaye’s Desire for Change
The 34-year-old artist explained that his decision to retire the The Weeknd name comes from a deep desire for personal growth and freedom. “It’s a headspace I’ve gotta get into that I just don’t have any more desire for,” Tesfaye confessed. “I feel like it comes with so much…competition,” he continued, revealing how the relentless pursuit of success had started to feel like an endless race. The constant drive for awards, No. 1 hits, and more shows had drained his passion for his long-held alias.
A Career of Monumental Success: The Weeknd’s Legacy
Since releasing his debut single in 2010, The Weeknd has become a global icon, achieving an unprecedented level of success. With three mixtapes, four EPs, and five studio albums, his music has resonated with millions worldwide. His albums have sold over 75 million records, earning him seven diamond certifications and four Grammys. But despite these accomplishments, Tesfaye feels he has reached the pinnacle of his career with his The Weeknd persona. He feels there’s no more room for growth or challenge in this chapter of his life.
The Voice Injury That Changed Everything
The turning point came during The Weeknd’s 2022 “After Hours til Dawn Tour,” when Tesfaye lost his voice while performing his hit song “Can’t Feel My Face” at SoFi Stadium. He was forced to apologize to the crowd, reschedule the show, and exit the stage early. Tesfaye later admitted that the stress and self-imposed pressure had led to this shocking injury. Reflecting on this moment, he said it made him question his future in music, asking, “When is the right time to leave, if not at your peak?”
Hurry Up Tomorrow: A Bold New Chapter for Abel Tesfaye
Despite his decision to retire The Weeknd, Tesfaye is not stepping away from music entirely. His creative journey will continue under a different identity as he seeks new challenges. “I’ve overcome every challenge as this persona,” he said, “and that’s why I’m really excited about this film, because I love this challenge.” His upcoming album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, is set to drop on January 31, 2025, and will be followed by a psychological thriller film of the same name, starring Tesfaye, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan.
What’s Next for Abel Tesfaye?
With the release of Hurry Up Tomorrow, fans are left to wonder what’s next for Abel Tesfaye. He has already hinted at a dramatic shift away from the public persona he has cultivated for over a decade. However, one thing is certain: his new music and film projects will mark a bold new era for the artist. Whether Tesfaye will completely step out of the spotlight or redefine his creative expression remains to be seen, but this is certainly a thrilling new chapter that fans won’t want to miss.
The decision to retire The Weeknd marks a massive shift in the music world. Tesfaye’s legacy as an artist is undeniable, but it’s clear that he’s ready to evolve and leave behind the character that has defined him for so long. Get ready for the explosive conclusion to The Weeknd’s era—the countdown to Hurry Up Tomorrow is on!