Billie Eilish says sexual misconduct is ‘everywhere’ in interview with Vogue magazine

Billie Eilish
Kelia Anne MacCluskey

Singer songwriter Billie Eilish has revealed that she was once a victim of sexual misconduct and described the issue as being “everywhere.”

In an intimate interview with Vogue, the 19-year-old discussed her latest single, Your Power, which is about an abuser taking advantage of a minor.

The Grammy award-winner said the song is “an open letter” to people who take advantage of others.

“I would like people to listen to me. And not just try to figure out who I’m talking about, because it’s not about that,” she said, adding, “It’s really not at all about one person. You might think, ‘It’s because she’s in the music industry’ – no, dude. It’s everywhere.”

Eilish told the magazine that she did not know one girl or woman who “hasn’t had a weird experience, or a really bad experience.

“And men, too – young boys are taken advantage of constantly,” she added.

Although she did not go into much detail, Vogue interviewer Laura Snapes wrote that the star had also been a victim and it “happened to Eilish when she was younger.”

But added “the details are hers.”

Eilish also used the interview as an opportunity to unveil a new look and to hit back at those who have had a lot to say about the type of outfits she previously chose to wear - which often included baggy shirts and jeans.

Speaking of her new blonde hair, she said the colour change from her usual black and green made her feel “more like a woman, somehow”.

“Don’t make me not a role model because you’re turned on by me,” she told Vogue, adding that her body “was the initial reason for my depression when I was younger.

“Suddenly you’re a hypocrite if you want to show your skin, and you’re easy and you’re a slut and you’re a whore. If I am, then I’m proud. Me and all the girls are hoes. Let’s turn it around and be empowered in that,” she said.

Eilish added: “Showing your body and showing your skin - or not - should not take any respect away from you.”

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