Hayley Kiyoko has opened up about how her nickname ‘Lesbian Jesus’ has been instrumental in healing her inner child. During a recent appearance on the ‘Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club’ podcast to promote her new novel titled ‘Where There’s Room for Us’, the singer and author reflected on how the moniker has become a significant part of her identity. The 34-year-old artist shared with podcast host Danielle Robay the story behind the nickname, which was affectionately given to her by fans during her 2018 tour for her debut album, ‘Expectations’. As fans began referring to her as ‘Lesbian Jesus’ during Q&A sessions and meet-and-greet events, Kiyoko initially felt a bit out of the loop before fully embracing the title.
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Kiyoko expressed her gratitude for receiving a nickname, something she had always craved since childhood. She spoke about her desire to have a moniker beyond her given name, stating, “My name is just Hayley. And that’s just what people called me.” Embracing the ‘Lesbian Jesus’ nickname has been a source of healing for Kiyoko’s inner child, providing her with a sense of belonging and uniqueness. The singer’s acceptance of the nickname signifies a significant shift in her self-perception and highlights the impact of reclaiming labels and identities with pride and empowerment.
In addition to discussing her nickname, Kiyoko delved into the narrative of her latest literary endeavour, ‘Where There’s Room for Us’. The LGBTQ+ young adult romantic comedy, set in the Victorian era, follows the story of a poet named Ivy who relocates from New York to an English estate where she encounters socialite Freya Tallon. Exploring themes of love, identity, and societal expectations, the novel offers a fresh perspective on historical romance narratives.
Kiyoko’s creative process for crafting ‘Where There’s Room for Us’ was heavily influenced by her commitment to portraying hopeful queer narratives across different mediums, including literature and music. Drawing inspiration from her own life experiences, particularly her relationship with partner Becca Tilley, Kiyoko infused the novel with elements of personal growth, self-discovery, and unconventional love stories. By incorporating queer themes and characters in a historical setting, Kiyoko aims to broaden representation and offer readers a diverse range of narratives to resonate with.
Reflecting on her journey as an author and musician, Kiyoko emphasized the importance of creating spaces for LGBTQ+ voices and stories to thrive. Through her work, she strives to challenge existing norms and expectations, presenting alternative narratives that celebrate diverse identities and relationships. With ‘Where There’s Room for Us’ now available to readers worldwide, Kiyoko continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences with her innovative storytelling and unwavering advocacy for queer representation.
As Kiyoko’s ‘Lesbian Jesus’ persona continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, the artist remains dedicated to amplifying LGBTQ+ visibility in the entertainment industry. By embracing her nickname and infusing her artistic projects with authentic queer storytelling, Kiyoko is paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive creative landscape. The success of ‘Where There’s Room for Us’ reflects Kiyoko’s dedication to empowering marginalized voices and reshaping traditional narratives to reflect the rich diversity of human experiences.