Michaela Jaé Rodriguez is disrupting the system
From a ballroom mother to a fierce fembot and an animated ninja, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez is proudly smashing the status quo. Photographer Myles Loftin Words Sam Damshenas Art Direction and Cover Design Jack Rowe Stylist Sam Knoll Stylist Assistant Jamisha Rosado Makeup Artist Alicia Martinez using Charlotte Tilbury Hair Stylist Davey Matthew at The Only Agency Production Megan Wallace Studio Industria Superstudio Photography Assistant Andrew Espinal With thanks to Louis D’Adamio As 33F7, a fashion-forward “fembot” of the cosmic variety, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez is putting an intergalactic spin on pop.
In September, the Pose icon released her debut album 33, a 90s-influenced collection of R&B, house and pop bops exploring themes such as self-discovery, resilience and empowerment via her alter-ego.
From tackling body autonomy in ‘I Am’ to persecution and alienation in ‘Why’, 33 is the album that Michaela Jaé was destined to make – and one that cements her status as an up-and-coming sonic (and visual) force in the pop industry. “[33] was to reflect my own journey, but also for anyone of the queer diaspora, or who is “different”,” she tells GAY TIMES. “At some point, you realise that you’re not the problem.
You simply are.” In addition to her multiversal shenanigans with 33F7, Michaela Jaé is continuing to diversify her filmography with comedic (Loot), horror (American Horror Story), thriller (Skincare) and musical roles (Tick, Tick… Boom!).
