Andrew Hozier comments on Pope Francis' image and shows his lighter side with Kelly Osbourne

Kelly Osbourne recently filled in for Larry King and interviewed Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, and the latter gave some strong statements regarding Pope Francis’ LBGTQ stand.

Born as Andrew Hozier-Byrne, the hitmaker is best known for the single “Take Me to Church.” The single is about institutionalised homophobia and practices of discrimination against the LBGTQ community.

The multi-instrumentalist had a sit-down interview in Larry King Now and commented on Pope Francis’ popularity. "This is one of the paradoxes and weird hypocrisy of that organisation [Catholic Church],” he claimed.

He said that it is important to differentiate between lip service and actually making a change. He goes to quote Pope Francis’ “Who am I to judge?” statement as something that should have been said 100 years ago.

Hozier explained that the institutionalised “aversion to homosexuality” has driven him to write the hit song “Take Me to Church.” The music video for the song was inspired by the reports of anti-gay violence in Russia. While he is hopeful of the support gained by LGBTQ communities around the world, the singer said that he does not feel that much has changed since his single has been released.

When asked about his plans to release new music, Hozier said that he will take a few months off after he finishes his tour to write new stuff. As for possible collaborations, he said that he wants to collaborate with Tom Waits, who has been a huge influence to him and his music.

On a lighter note, the singer answered questions in a segment called “If You Only Knew,” where he revealed that he had his first kiss at 16. He also said that if he had superpowers, he wants to be able to teleport so he could go home any time after work.

As for pet peeve, he said, “I think people who walk slowly,” to which Osbourne laughed. He also said that he appreciates different kinds of humour. He shared that one time, a fan gave him a noose, which he calls a “self-esteem augmentation kit.”

Hozier has been in Australia for a tour since Oct. 28. The tour will end on Nov. 6 in Brisbane Riverstage.

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