Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams made a surprise visit to Manchester institution Afflecks Palace this week during a break in her tour schedule, prompting an emotional response from the venue's staff and fans alike.
Rock Star Stops by Iconic Shopping Emporium
Williams, known for hits like Misery Business and The Only Exception, was in Manchester for two shows at Manchester Academy on Monday and Tuesday (June 22 and 23). On Wednesday (June 24), Afflecks posted on social media that the singer had popped into the iconic shopping emporium, describing her as 'so super lovely' and noting she took time to pose for photos.
According to the venue's Instagram post, Williams even gave a shout-out to Afflecks during the second gig at Manchester Academy. The post read: 'So a very special visitor stopped by Afflecks yesterday... A huge thank you to Hayley Williams for taking the time to visit us, say hello, and pose for a photo. She was so super lovely, kind, and welcoming, and to top it all off she even gave Afflecks a shout-out during last night’s show. Safe to say we’re feeling a little emotional about it. Thank you again Hayley for supporting Manchester’s small businesses.'
Paramore's Legacy and Hayley's Solo Career
Paramore formed in Tennessee in 2004 and have released six albums, with 2023's This Is Why being their latest. The Grammy-winning band went on hiatus last year, with Williams pursuing her solo career. In 2025, she released her third studio album, Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party, described as a departure from the Paramore sound. She unveiled dates for the US, Europe, and the UK for 2026 as part of the Hayley Williams at a Bachelorette Party tour.
Fan Reactions and Mancunian Connection
On stage, Williams mentioned that during her time in Manchester she had 'learnt some Mancunian' and visited Afflecks, drawing huge cheers from the crowd. In the photo taken at Afflecks, she posed with a dried posy bought from the Jamies Jungle shop on the first floor.
Fans shared their excitement on social media. One commented: 'this is huge for me as an afflecks and hayley enjoyer wow.' Another said: 'I bought so many paramore shirts from afflecks over the last 15 years. I am so emotional.' A third added: 'Hayley LOVES Manchester, can always guarantee that she'll be in NQ or Afflecks when she's here. Icon.' Some fans even met her inside the venue, with one writing: 'Met her in there, was shaken. she spoke to me and my partner and she was so sweet bless her.'
