'KPop Demon Hunters' writer Hannah McMechan reveals she came out as bisexual while making the hit

KPop Demon Hunters writer Hannah McMechan has opened up about her journey of self-discovery, revealing that she came out as bisexual while working on the hit Netflix animated film.

In an exclusive interview with People, the screenwriter said she did not realise she was queer when she first joined the project in 2020. However, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a period of reflection that ultimately led her to embrace her sexuality. McMechan came out to friends over the following years before telling her parents in 2023.

“I was so afraid of telling anyone in my life,” McMechan said, explaining that her experience mirrored many of the themes explored in the film. Raised in a religious household, she described feeling ashamed and reluctant to share her identity with those around her.

The writer revealed that KPop Demon Hunters took on an increasingly personal meaning as she navigated her sexuality. The film follows K-pop star Rumi, who hides her half-demon identity out of fear of rejection and ostracism. Although McMechan never explicitly discussed her experiences with the film’s directors during development, she believes her journey inevitably influenced the story.

One scene in particular resonated deeply with her. Near the end of the film, Rumi pleads with her adoptive mother to accept all aspects of who she is after her true identity is exposed. McMechan said the emotional exchange reminded her of her own relationship with her mother and the challenges of seeking acceptance from loved ones.

The screenwriter acknowledged that coming out to her parents was “really difficult” and said the conversation remains ongoing. According to McMechan, her parents are still working to understand and accept her sexuality, with some family members continuing to question whether it is “a phase”.

Now in a long-term relationship with her partner, McMechan hopes sharing her experience will help others facing similar challenges. She said it is important for people to understand that not every coming-out story is immediately met with acceptance and that many families continue to work through those conversations over time.

McMechan also said she has been moved by the strong response from LGBTQIA+ audiences, many of whom have embraced KPop Demon Hunters as a story about identity, shame and self-acceptance.

Looking ahead, McMechan and writing partner Danya Jimenez are developing a queer western passion project while also working on director Tim Burton’s remake of Attack of the 50 Ft. Woman, which is set to star Margot Robbie. Meanwhile, Netflix has announced a sequel to KPop Demon Hunters, though McMechan said she has not yet been told whether she will return as a writer.