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

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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