Olly Alexander opens up about homophobic abuse: ‘I’ve been called names and spat at’
By Ben Kelly
Olly Alexander has spoken about the abuse he has suffered in public for being a gay man.
In a new interview with ES Magazine, the Years and Years frontman admits: “I’ve been called names in the street and hit and spat at.” He also discussed the lasting effects of such abuse.
“I still feel a little uncomfortable holding hands with my partner in public,” he says. “Homophobia is less overt, sure, but it’s still with us in insidious, institutionalised forms.”
The 25-year-old also speaks to the magazine about the success of his band, and how he hopes to positively present his gay love life in their songs – something he recently did in serious style for the new video for hit single ‘Desire’, for which he also penned a powerful essay about LGBT representation in the media.
“My lyrics are about same-sex relationships, because that’s who I am,” he said. “It was important to me that I felt comfortable expressing myself. I’m always touched and humbled by the number of people who come up to me and say they connect with my sexuality in the songs. Other people just like the songs.”
The former Attitude cover star, who until recently was in a highly-publicised relationship with Clean Bandit violinist Neil Milan, also revealed an unlikely crush.
“I’m a real left-winger,” he admits. “I fancy Jeremy Corbyn! Maybe it’s naïve of me to have this romantic political fantasy but I like the way he looks like he’s always about to head off to a march or a protest.”
He also speaks about his sadness at the decline of London’s gay scene, and the continued closures of historic venues. “It’s so sad,” he says. “A lot of our community has moved online now, but bars are not just places to hook up, they’re part of our history and culture.”
In the wide ranging interview, the BRIT nominated singer also speaks about his battles with anxiety and depression, something he recently discussed in a video interview with Guardian columnist Owen Jones.
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