Hayley Kiyoko Exclusive Interview About Insecure Guest Role

Since returning to HBO in July for its second season, Insecure has been a bright spot of snappy, thoughtful summer TV. Sunday's episode, "Hella L.A.," was no exception. After meeting two girls at the grocery store, Lawrence (played by Jay Ellis) realizes they're actually both really into being with him—together. Happily, he's also on board with the idea of a threesome; things get hot quick, but also develop a curious angle that Lawrence hadn't necessarily perceived at first. What seems like a fun, casual encounter at the outset becomes a more provoking—and potentially problematic—experience of race and sexuality. As Ellis explained to Vulture, "he's told by these girls that another black guy can do it much better than him, and Lawrence is far from their first."

Hayley Kiyoko fans likely noticed the 26-year-old "Girls Like Girls" singer and actress played one of Lawrence's assertive new friends. ELLE.com caught up with Kiyoko for an exclusive chat before the episode aired to find out how she got involved with the hit show, why her mom was so enthusiastic about her nude scene, and why she loves Issa Rae (same).

How did you get involved with 'Insecure' and the episode?

It's a hilarious episode. Lawrence meets these two girls at the grocery store and has this threesome. It's very L.A. and it's very nude. The casting director who cast me for Lemonade Mouth, a Disney film I did at the beginning of my acting career, also cast me for this episode. We had this full circle moment.

I called my mom in a panic because I was like, "Oh my gosh, do I go nude? What do I do?" And she was just like, "Hayley, if you're gonna be nude, now is the time. You're 26 years old, now is the time!" And I was like, "Thanks mom, you're so right!"

With both music and acting on your plate, what helps you to decide what projects to take on?

It's difficult to navigate because as my music career is starting to grow, I'm having to start becoming a little more choosy. But Issa Rae is a true creator—I love Insecure, and I love that she writes and created the show. It was so wonderful to be a part of a show that is created by strong, diverse women. You could feel that energy. There's something really inspirational about it—I called my manager when I showed up on set and was like, "I feel like I can do anything!" I like to be a part of shows that are trying to make waves and changes.