Hayley Kiyoko announced her directorial debut on Instagram, revealing that her hit song “Girls Like Girls” will be turned into a feature-length film. The track has become an anthem for many in the LGBTQ+ community, with its music video having garnered more than 161 million views on YouTube. The film is also rumored to feature all-new music from Kiyoko.
What We Know
The film is set to be released in theaters on June 19, 2026, marking the 11-year anniversary of the song’s debut. The Focus Features project is described as a “coming-of-age story of first loves, identity and the moments that shape who we become,” according to the studio.
The film will star Maya da Costa, known for her role in “Under the Bridge”, as Coley, and Myra Molloy, known for her role in “He’s All That,” as Sonya. The project is being produced by multi-award-winning producer Marc Platt, Katie McNicol, Dee Best, Michael Philip, Jason Morning and Richard Alan Reid.
The movie will expand on the original music video’s storyline, diving deeper into the characters and their experiences. The story is set to follow 17-year-old Coley, who lives in rural Oregon and is learning to navigate intimacy after the death of her mother. During this time, she meets Sonya and new feelings begin to surface. However, self-doubt and outside pressures begin to put a strain on their relationship.
The Cultural Impact
“Girls Like Girls” has become a cultural touchstone for countless young queer women. The music video especially resonates with many who see themselves and past experiences reflected in the characters.
Kiyoko shared the significance of the project over Instagram:
“I have dreamt of this moment for 9 years. Over the past almost decade my priorities have shifted and evolved. I have never fought so hard for anything in my life. The tears, the setbacks, the sacrifices, the closed doors, the immense struggle to get a film made is another story in itself…We made it. It’s here. From a song, to a music video, to a book, to a feature film. WE DID IT. We will continue to create space and ignite hope. “ – Haley Kiyoko on her Instagram (@HayleyKiyoko)
Not the First Adaptation
The upcoming film is not the first time Kiyoko has expanded the “Girls Like Girls” universe. In 2023, she released a young adult romance novel based on the music video’s storyline. The book further explores Coley and Sonya’s relationship and offers fans a more in-depth look at their journey.
With the film’s release set for 2026, audiences can revisit the novel or original music video while waiting to see Kiyoko’s vision come to life on the big screen.
Let us know if you’re going to see Hayley Kiyoko’s directorial debut of “Girls Like Girls” on Instagram, @VALLEYMag.
