Anne Hathaway Sets the Record Straight on the Inspiration Behind Her Age-Gap Rom-Com “The Essence of You”: ‘Not Just Another British Romance’

Anne Hathaway has been addressing rumors suggesting that the male pop star character in her latest rom-com, The Ida of You, was modeled after Harry Styles.
In the movie, Anne’s character, Solène, embarks on a love story with a member of a boyband, Hayes Campbell, portrayed by Nicholas Galitzine.
There has been speculation among fans that Hayes is inspired by the former One Direction member Styles.
Anne revealed in an interview with Stellar magazine that the author of the original novel, Robinne Lee, has refuted any connections to Styles.
Despite this, Hathaway, 41, humorously pointed out, “You guys keep insisting. The author keeps denying it!”

Anne Hathaway, a producer and lead actress in the new romantic comedy, The Ida of You, addressed rumors that the character inspired by pop star Harry Styles. In the film, Hathaway’s character, Solène, embarks on a romance with boyband member Hayes Campbell, portrayed by Nicholas Galitzine. Hathaway clarified that during auditions, they were looking for the essence of Hayes Campbell, not specifically a British actor. She emphasized that the character’s nationality would align with the actor chosen for the role. Despite speculation linking the film to real-life relationships, Hathaway dismissed claims that the story was based on any specific individuals like Harry Styles or Olivia Wilde.

Fans have been speculating that Hayes might actually be inspired by the one and only Harry Styles from One Direction (as shown in the picture).

Anne mentioned that the author of the novel that inspired the film, Robinne Lee, has repeatedly stated that there is no resemblance to Harry Styles. “You guys keep saying it, but the author keeps clarifying that it’s not!” Anne exclaimed.

During the premiere of the film at SXSW, Anne urged everyone to relax and not jump to conclusions. “Sorry, I maybe shouldn’t react so strongly, but I just don’t see it,” she told E! News.

The movie, based on Robinne Lee’s 2017 book, features Hathaway playing the role of Solène, a 40-year-old single mother who goes to Coachella with her teenage daughter at her ex-husband’s suggestion. While there, she embarks on a love affair with Hayes Campbell, a 24-year-old frontman of a popular boy band played by Nicholas Galitzine.

Harry Styles, now 30, is currently romantically involved with Olivia Wilde, his co-star and director in the 2022 film “Don’t Worry Darling.” Styles previously made headlines at age 17 for dating the late TV personality Caroline Flack, who was 14 years older than him.

During an interview, Nicholas Galitzine, who stars alongside Hathaway, mentioned that they have made an effort to distance themselves from the rumors swirling around them. He addressed the speculation, finding humor in how it has taken on a life of its own. Galitzine emphasized the brilliance of Hayes as a character separate from any gossip. He shared insights into the creative process, noting how references like BTS inspired the choreography in the film. Hathaway, in a separate interview with Extra, firmly denied the rumors once more, emphasizing that the movie is about the journey of healing after heartbreak. She delved into her character’s mindset, explaining how she initially views the relationship as just a casual fling.

‘We’ve made an effort to move away from that, and I believe Hayes stands out as a remarkable character on his own,’ stated the British actor.

Anne Hathaway affirmed that Harry Styles has inspired the romantic comedy film The Ida of You: ‘We weren’t looking for someone who is British.’

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