Kiyoko's 'Girls Like Girls' Unapologetically Hits Theaters

Hayley Kiyoko's celebrated song 'Girls Like Girls,' originally released in 2015, is now a feature film set to premiere in theaters on June 19, 2026. This project represents Kiyoko's transition to feature directorial debut, a journey she describes as a decade-long aspiration. The film expands upon the narrative of the song and the story she published as a book in 2023.

Directed by Kiyoko herself, the film stars Maya da Costa as Coley and Myra Molloy as Sonya. Kiyoko has expressed that casting da Costa was an 'out-of-body experience,' feeling she perfectly embodied the character. The narrative centers on a queer teen relationship, focusing on unspoken emotions and the unique language of silence often experienced in queer youth.

The release of 'Girls Like Girls' arrives at a critical juncture for LGBTQ+ representation. Kiyoko notes a concerning trend of decreased queer characters in media, contrasting with the positive momentum she felt when the song was released shortly before same-sex marriage was legalized in the U.S. She hopes the film serves as a beacon of unapologetic queer storytelling and a safe space for the community.

Kiyoko views the film's release as the culmination of a personal journey of authenticity, having explored the 'Girls Like Girls' narrative through a song, a music video, and a book. This feature film is her most authentic expression of the story to date, aiming to inspire resilience in relationships and self-discovery over time. The film is part of Out's May-June 2026 print issue.