With a ‘Bachelorette’-themed video, Hayley Kiyoko has something ‘for the girls.’ In an exclusive conversation, the pop sensation also discusses her upcoming sophomore album Panorama and her love for all things Bachelor Nation.
When it comes to Hayley Kiyoko, there are two things you should be aware of: She is a proud member of Bachelor Nation and is gay. Kiyoko imagines what a lesbian Bachelorette would look like in her new self-directed video for her catchy new tune “For the Girls.” She can’t believe she hasn’t tried it before now.
“I absolutely adore The Bachelor series. While en route to the White House’s AAPI Heritage Month activities, Kiyoko tells Rolling Stone, “Honestly, reality TV is what gets me through everyday stress.” “I really enjoy mindless drama that is also so entertaining that you become invested in their lives and world.” “I wanted a queer take on it.”
She prioritized an entirely queer cast when casting the film, with the exception of her father, who appears as a limo chauffeur for the competitors on their way to meet Kiyoko. She jokes, “I was honestly hollering at him to get off the set.” “The shot only took a second!” He’s been there for ten minutes and knows everyone and is interacting with the contestants.”
The video captures all of the drama and romance that fans have come to expect from The Bachelorette: Before the rose ceremony, there is a lot of yelling, crying, and kissing. Kiyoko is welcomed with a surprise match at the end, who looks to be Kiyoko’s chosen winner – none other than two-time Bachelor participant Becca Tilley. Tilley finished second in Season 19 before being eliminated in Week Seven of Season 20.
“I needed a Bachelor alum in the film, so we talked about having her included,” Kiyoko explains, carefully picking her words. Kiyoko and Tilley have been sighted spending time together frequently in recent years and are suspected to be dating.
The singer hints, “Third time’s the charm.” “That’s all I’ve got to say about it.”
Expectations, Kiyoko’s debut album, was released in 2018. In 2020, she released an EP titled I’m Too Sensitive for This Shit while working on her sophomore album. With the singles “Found My Friends” and “Chance,” she began promoting her upcoming album Panorama last year. Panorama will be released on July 29, and for the actress, it will be an opportunity to give a more intimate portrait of her current life.
She describes the contrast between the two as “feeling like I was catching up with my genuine self [on my debut album].” “It seems to happen a lot to queer individuals.” It’s like going back in time once you emerge. ‘Oh my my, I can share who I adore!’ I exclaimed. I’d like to tell you this story! ‘I want to tell you that story.’
Panorama feels like a proper debut in some ways since it captures her current self. She named it after a panoramic vista, which she was able to enjoy in her life after overcoming mental and physical health issues throughout the Expectations period. “It makes me feel like a refined version of myself.” I feel like I’ve learned more about myself in the last couple of years than I did during the Expectations era.”
Kiyoko has a lot on her plate this summer. She’ll co-host the 50th anniversary of London Pride at the Royal Albert Hall in June. She’ll go on tour with Lauv later. She’s ecstatic to be on the road with a new music project.
“I hope these records give my followers a sense of empowerment,” she continues. “I was able to use Panorama effectively to reinvent myself, my strength, and my confidence.” I’m hoping it will have the same effect on my audience.”
