**The Weeknd Confirms Plans to Continue Career Despite Retirement Speculation**
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The artist known as The Weeknd has clarified his intentions regarding his stage name, asserting that he will not be retiring anytime soon. Initially hinting at a possible retirement in January 2025, the singer-songwriter, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, has since reconsidered and aims to narrow his focus on fewer projects at a time.
In a recent interview with GQ Hong Kong, The Weeknd elaborated on his decision to maintain his artistic presence. The 36-year-old mentioned that contrary to retiring, he plans to take a step back to concentrate his efforts on singular projects rather than juggling multiple endeavours. He remarked, “Disappearing simply means finally taking some time to focus all my energy on one project instead of juggling multiple things.”
Reflecting on his past few years, The Weeknd detailed an extensive creative output which includes four concept albums, numerous music videos, a television series, and a feature film. He commented, “I think disappearing for a little while is well earned,” acknowledging the demands of his schedule, including a world tour.
Addressing the speculation surrounding his retirement, he stated, “I’m not going anywhere. My fans know I’ve shed my skin multiple times throughout my career.” He clarified that the narrative he has been sharing since 2020 has concluded, yet this does not signify the end of his journey as an artist.
During the GQ interview, The Weeknd shared his feelings about the potential of stepping back from his career. “At one point I thought, ‘What if I just stopped?’ But then I realised what a waste all of that inspiration would be,” he explained. The artist expressed gratitude for the opportunities he has, stating, “It’s a real privilege to do what I do.”
Currently, The Weeknd is in the midst of his “After Hours til Dawn” Tour, which is scheduled to conclude on November 5 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Reflecting on his experiences on stage, he has reaffirmed his commitment to his fans, as evidenced by his remarks during a performance in Stockholm this past August, where he asserted, “I tested retirement a little bit, and I don’t like the way it feels. Imma be here forever with you.”
His exploration of retirement was sparked by an incident during a concert in Los Angeles in 2022, where he lost his voice, leading him to feel defeated and contemplate his public persona. “I knew that I really needed to sit the f— down and figure out my life,” he recalled, suggesting that the stress of his career impacted his well-being, culminating in what he described as a “mental breakdown.”
In a January 2025 cover story for Variety, he discussed the intense feelings that arose from that experience, explaining how they influenced his thoughts on retirement. “Part of me actually was thinking, ‘You lost your voice because it’s done; you said what you had to say,’” he reflected, questioning what the right time to leave the industry would be, particularly when he felt he was at the peak of his career.
Throughout this journey, The Weeknd has consistently embodied a character that resonates with his audience, and he has clearly stated his desire to continue evolving as an artist. “Once you understand who I am too much, then it’s time to pivot,” he concluded.
As fans eagerly await The Weeknd’s next steps, it appears he is in no rush to step away from the limelight. With a wealth of inspiration and creativity still within him, he is poised to keep delivering music and performances that captivate his audience for years to come.