The Weeknd Recalls How "Avatar" Helped Him Through "Darkest Time" Of His Life

BYErika MariePublished on January 12, 20231.9K Views

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 12: The Weeknd attends 20th Century Studio's "Avatar 2: The Way of Water" U.S. Premiere at Dolby Theatre on December 12, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

When James Cameron reached out to the singer to be a part of the new movie's theme, The Weeknd didn't hesitate.

The latest Avatar film has sparked a wave of controversy, but The Weeknd remembers how the first film changed his life. Avatar: The Way of the Water has been at the center of backlash after production was accused of appropriating real-life Indigenous cultures and perpetuating racist stereotypes. As those conversations continue, The Weeknd has also been praised for partnering with Swedish House Mafia and composer Simon Frenglen to create the movie's theme, "Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength)."

The Hollywood Reporter caught up with the House of Balloons hitmaker, and Weeknd explained how the original 2009 film changed him. “That was probably the darkest time of my life,” he said.

Read More: Indigenous Communities Bash New “Avatar” For Racist Stereotypes

The Weeknd recalled dropping out of school and being homeless. "I didn’t know if I was going to succeed as a musician."

He further stated, "I didn’t know if I was going to be able to live to see tomorrow. And I remember I somehow got to see the film in theaters. I don’t know how I got in. It was such an escape from my real life that the film is tattooed in my brain.”

Within a few years, the Canadian icon's life would shift as his career took off. When James Cameron reached out to The Weeknd to contribute to the soundtrack, it was a no-brainer. Now, "Nothing Is Lost" has been shortlisted for Best Original Song at this year's upcoming Academy Awards.

Read More: “Avatar: The Way Of Water” Opens With $130M-$150M At Box Office

He additionally said, “They told me they had one name on the list to do the song, and it was me. It feels kismet, and it’s a full-circle moment for me to be a part of something like this." It was "because it is such an important film for me.”

During the chat, THR asked The Weeknd about winning a Grammy for Kanye West's "Hurricane." That year, the singer didn't submit his own music for consideration. His album After Hours was a record-breaking hit, but The Recording Academy previously snubbed the project and its singles.

"Again, I’m just grateful. Any kind of recognition, I’m grateful for it. I’m just happy to be in the conversation."

About The Author

Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.

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