The Weeknd recently shared insights into how his personal experiences with sleep paralysis have influenced his upcoming film, “Hurry Up Tomorrow.” In an interview with The Fader, he described sleep paralysis as an intense foe, stating, “There are no antagonists in this film. I think that sleep paralysis is the enemy.”
He elaborated on his struggles with sleep paralysis, revealing it as a condition that still affects him. “There are very vivid nightmares where you’re in bed, and you’re half asleep and aware of your surroundings, but you can’t move,” he explained. He often envisions shadowy figures and hears unsettling voices during these episodes, lasting almost a minute.
To cope, The Weeknd has researched the condition, identifying sleep deprivation as a key factor. His remedy involves creating a restful environment by disconnecting from electronic devices. “My big medicine for it was to just turn your phone off, turn the TV off, turn all the lights off,” he noted.
“Hurry Up Tomorrow” is set to be released in theaters on May 16 and was first introduced at the 2025 CinemaCon in Las Vegas, where Jenna Ortega praised it as “very soulful” and unlike any film she’s encountered, describing it more as an experience.
Additionally, The Weeknd has previously shared his strategies for managing stress through structured naps, specifically “astronaut naps” lasting 26 minutes, which he claims work “like magic” in resetting his mind.
This blending of personal experience with creative expression not only highlights the challenges of dealing with sleep issues but also illustrates how artists can transform pain into art. The Weeknd’s journey offers a hopeful narrative for those grappling with similar issues, emphasizing the importance of finding coping mechanisms to enhance mental well-being.