Billie Eilish, at just 23 years old, continues to dominate both the music industry and cultural conversations. 2024 has been a landmark year for the multi-talented artist, defined not just by her professional achievements but also by personal growth and unapologetic honesty about her life. With her signature blend of humor and candor, Eilish opened up to Vanity Fair about her year of milestones, friendships, and a journey of self-discovery that left fans both inspired and intrigued.
A Record-Breaking Year for Billie Eilish
Eilish’s career reached dazzling new heights in 2024, solidifying her position as one of the most influential artists of her generation. Her third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, released in May, has been a colossal success. With millions of streams worldwide, it became the second most-streamed album of the year on Spotify, narrowly trailing Taylor Swift’s Tortured Poet’s Department.
Her track “Birds of a Feather” also soared to global acclaim, ranking as the third most-streamed song of the year. These achievements capped off a year filled with accolades, including an Oscar win alongside her brother and collaborator, Finneas, for their hauntingly poignant song “What Was I Made For?”
“This year has been beyond anything I ever imagined,” Eilish gushed in her interview. “Finneas and I achieved things we didn’t even dare to dream of, and to win a second Oscar? That’s something I’ll be processing for a long time.”
A Year of Friendship and Connection
Beyond the spotlight, Eilish focused on strengthening her relationships. Having previously spoken about losing friends due to the pressures of fame, she made a conscious effort to reconnect with old friends and forge new bonds.
“This has been a year filled with friendship,” she said. “I’ve reconnected with people I lost touch with, made new friends, and deepened my relationships. It’s been such a rewarding and heartwarming experience. Honestly, that was the thing I wanted most this year, and I nailed it.”
Eilish’s ability to nurture her personal life alongside her relentless professional schedule speaks volumes about her commitment to balance and well-being.
Candid Conversations About Love and S*xuality
Eilish also reflected on her romantic life, revealing her year was marked by fulfilling experiences. With her trademark humor, she quipped, “And yes, I’ve had a lot of good s*x. So, you’re welcome, Billie!”
Her comments have reignited public interest in her love life and s*xuality, topics she has addressed with both frustration and clarity. “I’ve always been in love with girls,” Eilish admitted, recounting the moment of self-realization that led to greater understanding of her identity.
However, she expressed her discomfort with the way her s*xuality has been dissected by fans and media alike. “I was never planning on talking about my s*xuality ever, in a million years. It’s really frustrating to me that it came up,” she shared.
Eilish’s frustration stems from the intense scrutiny that often accompanies her every move. “The whole world suddenly decided who I was, and I didn’t get to say anything or control any of it,” she told Rolling Stone. “It’s so unfair how the internet bullies you into defining yourself when you’re still figuring things out.”
Breaking Free from Stereotypes and Expectations
Throughout her career, Eilish has consistently defied industry norms and public expectations. From her bold fashion choices to her genre-defying music, she’s built her career on authenticity. But that path hasn’t been without its challenges.
“The internet is quick to put people in boxes,” she said. “It takes time to find yourself, and nobody should feel pressured to fit into someone else’s idea of who they should be.”
Eilish’s decision to clarify her bis*xuality in an Instagram post in 2023—asking fans to “leave me alone about it”—was her way of reclaiming agency. While she later admitted she might have overreacted, she emphasized the importance of taking control of her own narrative.
Pushing Boundaries and Seeking Adventure
Eilish’s thirst for adventure continues to fuel her goals for the future. Reflecting on her aspirations, she revealed plans to tick off bucket list items like skydiving, bungee jumping, and stunt driving.
“I really want to do stuff like that—things that make you feel alive, things that have a little bit of danger,” she shared with a laugh. “It’s all about embracing life and taking risks.”
This fearless attitude is emblematic of Eilish’s approach to her career and personal life, as she consistently pushes boundaries and encourages her fans to do the same.
Focusing on Personal Growth
Amid her whirlwind year, Eilish has prioritized self-discovery and personal growth. She has embraced her evolving identity and worked to maintain a sense of balance in her fast-paced life.
“I’ve done a lot of reflecting this year,” she admitted. “I’ve grown in ways I didn’t think I would, and I’m proud of where I am. It’s not just about the music or the fame—it’s about feeling at peace with who I am.”
Her candid reflections reveal a young woman determined to stay true to herself, even as the world watches her every move.
The Legacy of 2024: A Year to Remember
Billie Eilish’s 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal year in her career and personal journey. From record-breaking success in music and film to meaningful connections with friends and a deeper understanding of herself, Eilish has shown remarkable growth and resilience.
As she moves into 2025, Eilish remains an inspiring figure for her fans—proof that it’s possible to thrive under pressure, embrace one’s true self, and prioritize the things that truly matter.
In her own words, “Life is meant to be lived, and I’m doing everything I can to make the most of it.”
