It’s finally out! After months of anticipating the new Taylor Swift video featuring the trans Dominican actor Laith Ashley, “Lavender Haze” is officially released today (Jan. 27) – and fans are thrilled about the music video’s LGBTQ+ representation.
Earlier today, Ashley took to Instagram to share his gratitude for this opportunity. “Thank you @taylorswift for allowing me to play a small part in your story,” he wrote on the post. “You are brilliant, and this is an experience I will never forget. It was truly magical.”
He continued: “Your storytelling abilities through your music and visuals continues to leave me in awe, inspired, and hopeful.” He wrapped up the sweet message with: “Thank you for being an ally. Representation matters. AND LOVE WILL ALWAYS WIN!”
The video features the trans actor and model as Swift’s love interest. The video starts with him in bed with Swift as she sings her emotional verses. Other highlighted shots of Laith include the already-seen moment of Swift brushing a multi-colored galaxy-like glimmer across his back, him peacefully sleeping, and him portraying a weather anchor on her television set. Later, he’s seen holding and dancing intimately with Swift at a party full of lavender haze.
Swifties are praising the American singer-songwriter on her video’s casting. A Twitter user wrote: “I mean Taylor Swift could’ve chosen anyone but she chose Laith Ashley, a transgender male actor, to be part of Lavender Haze mv. That shows how much she values inclusivity. Truly a LGBTQ+ ally!!!” Another social media user echoed the same emotion: “taylor swift including laith ashley (a trans model) as the love interest in the lavender haze music video is such a moment to me.”
“The Lavender Haze video is out now. There is lots of lavender. There is lots of haze,” Swift wrote when the video came out. “There is my incredible costar @laith_ashley, who I absolutely adored working with.”
Watch the new music video for “Lavender Haze” below.