The Idea of You: Why does the author regret drawing inspiration from Harry Styles for Hayes Campbell’s character?

Author Robinne Lee shares her reflections on “The Idea of You” and the controversy surrounding the initial claim that Harry Styles inspired the lead character, Hayes Campbell, shedding light on the complexities of character creation and the unintended consequences of media attention.

Clarifying Character Inspiration

In a recent interview with EW, Lee clarifies that Hayes Campbell, the fictional British boy band member in “The Idea of You,” was not solely inspired by Harry Styles, despite initial statements suggesting otherwise. Lee emphasizes that while Styles was one of several influences, including figures like JFK Jr., Michael Hutchence, and members of Duran Duran, he does not define the character’s entirety.

Not Fan Fiction

Contrary to some perceptions labeling the novel as fan fiction, Lee asserts that “The Idea of You” is not rooted in fan fiction. She discusses the depth of character development, drawing from a diverse array of real-life personalities to craft a multi-dimensional portrayal of Hayes Campbell. Lee’s approach integrates elements of various public figures, resulting in a character that transcends any single inspiration, as mentioned in a report by Deadline.

Evolving Perception

Lee acknowledges that Styles’ association with the character garnered significant attention due to his popularity at the time of the book’s release. However, she stresses that while Styles may have resonated with readers, Hayes Campbell exists independently in her creative vision. Lee expresses her willingness to accept divergent interpretations of the character while asserting her authorial autonomy in shaping his identity.

Adaptation and Recognition

“The Idea of You” received acclaim upon its release in 2017 and was later adapted into a film starring Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine. Despite the controversy surrounding character inspiration, Lee’s novel garnered attention for its exploration of love, identity, and societal norms. The adaptation brought her story to a wider audience, cementing her place in contemporary literature.

Looking Forward

As Lee reflects on the journey of “The Idea of You,” she remains focused on her creative vision and the broader themes explored in her work. While the controversy surrounding Harry Styles may have sparked initial interest, Lee’s narrative prowess and character-driven storytelling continue to captivate readers beyond any single celebrity association.

FAQsWhat was The Idea of You based on?

While many fans speculate that the fictional rocker is based on Harry Styles, Lee has previously mentioned that the character drew inspiration from various individuals, including Prince Harry and Tom Hiddleston. She tells PEOPLE that the novel is also deeply rooted in love — both fandom and romantic love.

What is the age gap in The Idea of You?

In the film, Hayes Campbell is depicted as 24 years old, whereas in the book, he’s portrayed as 20. Consequently, the age gap between Hayes and Solène is reduced from 19 years in the book to 16 years in the film.

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