Robinne Lee, the author of The Idea of You, recently opened up about the inspiration behind the character Hayes Campbell, played by Nicholas Galitzine in the Prime Video film. Many initially assumed that the character was solely inspired by Harry Styles, but Lee made it clear that there were multiple influences that went into creating Hayes Campbell.
According to Lee, Hayes Campbell is a combination of various real-life people, not just Harry Styles. She mentioned that he embodies qualities of JFK Jr. during his relationship with Daryl Hannah, as well as Michael Hutchence’s allure while dating Helena Christensen. Additionally, Lee revealed that her love for Duran Duran as a young person has also seeped into the character of Hayes Campbell, with references to Simon, John, and the band itself sprinkled throughout the book.
While some may see the parallels between Harry Styles and Hayes Campbell, Lee emphasized that she does not write the character with Styles in mind. She mentioned that Styles resonated with audiences due to his popularity at the time of the book’s release, but that Hayes Campbell is a distinct and multifaceted character in her mind. Lee expressed that even though Styles may have been the initial inspiration, Hayes Campbell has taken on a life of his own in her writing.
The Idea of You was originally published in 2017 and later adapted into a film starring Anne Hathaway. Despite initial comparisons to fan fiction, Lee’s narrative explores complex themes of love, age, and identity. The story delves into the forbidden romance between a 40-year-old woman and a boy band member, challenging societal norms and expectations.
For Lee, creating Hayes Campbell was a deeply personal journey that went beyond surface-level inspirations. While external figures may have influenced certain aspects of the character, Lee crafted a narrative that is rich in depth and complexity. As the author continues to reflect on the impact of her work, it is evident that The Idea of You is a testament to the power of storytelling and the intricacies of human connection.