The Idea of You, based on the bestselling novel by Robine Lee, has captivated audiences with its compelling storyline of Solène, a 40-year-old single mom, falling for Hayes Campbell, a 24-year-old boy band heartthrob. As the story unfolds, fans have been left with many questions, speculating on what might happen next for these characters. If you’ve already fallen in love with this contemporary romance, you’re likely itching to know what the future holds. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most intriguing The Idea of You fan theories that have taken the internet by storm. Could Solène and Hayes have a happily-ever-after? Or will their love story face even more unexpected twists? Let’s dive in!
Introduction: The Power of Fan Theories
One of the most exciting aspects of any beloved book or movie is the active engagement of its fanbase. With The Idea of You, fans have been quick to create their own theories about what could happen next in the relationship between Solène and Hayes. After all, this unconventional love story is ripe for speculation—an older woman and a younger man navigating the complexities of love, fame, and life’s unexpected turns. Fan theories provide a way for viewers to express their
passion and dive deeper into the story, imagining alternative endings and exploring what-ifs.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the fan theories that have emerged surrounding The Idea of You and explore their plausibility. Are these theories simply wishful thinking, or could they offer a glimpse into what may be coming next in the world of Solène and Hayes?
1. The Age Gap Might Be a Bigger Obstacle Than We Think
The Theory: Will Solène’s Age Become a Dividing Factor?
One of the most significant aspects of The Idea of You is the age gap between Solène and Hayes. Many fans believe that despite their deep connection, the age difference may pose a more significant obstacle as the relationship progresses. Some speculate that Solène’s insecurities about her age could lead to self-doubt and ultimately distance between her and Hayes. Others suggest that Hayes might eventually grow weary of being judged for dating someone older, particularly in the public eye.
While the movie portrays their connection as strong, the reality of navigating a high-profile relationship with such a considerable age gap could be far more challenging. Will Hayes be able to handle the societal judgment, or will the pressures become too much for their relationship to endure?
The Counter-Theory: Age Is Just a Number
On the flip side, some fans believe that the age gap will not be a significant issue in the long term. In a modern world where age differences in relationships are becoming increasingly normalized, these fans argue that the emotional connection between Solène and Hayes will override any societal pressures. They believe that the strength of their bond will only grow stronger with time, and that they’ll be able to navigate the challenges together.
This theory points to the idea that Solène and Hayes’ love is not defined by their ages but by their emotional maturity and the experiences they share. If their love can survive the pressures of fame and personal insecurities, then perhaps age won’t be a determining factor in their future.
2. Solène’s Ex-Husband Will Return and Cause Chaos
The Theory: Will Solène’s Ex-Husband Re-enter the Picture?
A common fan theory involves Solène’s ex-husband making a dramatic return. Some believe that his reappearance could cause tension between Solène and Hayes, especially if he tries to manipulate the situation for his own benefit. Fans have speculated that he might attempt to undermine Solène’s relationship with Hayes by bringing up their past or using their daughter as leverage.
The theory suggests that the ex-husband’s motivations are not purely for reconciliation, but rather, his desire to disrupt Solène’s newfound happiness with someone much younger. This could lead to a dramatic conflict that could push Solène to reconsider her choices.
The Counter-Theory: The Ex-Husband Won’t Stand a Chance
Alternatively, some fans feel that the ex-husband’s reappearance would be short-lived. They argue that Solène has grown emotionally stronger and no longer needs to rely on her past relationship. If he does come back, fans believe Solène will stand her ground, showing that she is fully committed to Hayes and their future. This theory focuses on Solène’s personal growth, suggesting that her relationship with Hayes will ultimately help her fully let go of her past.
The theory promotes the idea that no one from Solène’s past, especially not her ex-husband, will stand in the way of the love she’s built with Hayes.

3. Hayes Will Leave the Boy Band to Be with Solène
The Theory: Will Hayes Leave August Moon?
Another popular fan theory revolves around Hayes’s commitment to his music career. Many fans speculate that, despite his immense success as the lead singer of August Moon, Hayes may eventually choose love over fame. This theory suggests that he might leave the boy band to pursue a quieter, more private life with Solène, away from the media circus and the pressures of being a global pop star.
Some fans argue that the intense relationship with Solène will help Hayes realize that fame isn’t everything, and he’ll want to build a future with her that doesn’t involve the chaos of the spotlight. Leaving the band would signify his commitment to Solène and prove that he values their relationship above all else.
The Counter-Theory: Hayes Will Balance Both Worlds
On the other hand, some fans believe that Hayes will continue to juggle both his relationship with Solène and his career with August Moon. They argue that Hayes is capable of balancing both aspects of his life—fame and love—and that Solène will understand the demands of his career. In this theory, their love will thrive despite the chaos of Hayes’s fame, and they’ll find ways to make their relationship work even while navigating the complexities of the music industry.
This theory sees Hayes and Solène as a power couple who can succeed in both their personal and professional lives without sacrificing either.
4. A Major Scandal Will Shake Their Relationship
The Theory: Will a Scandal Erupt?
A more dramatic fan theory suggests that a scandal involving Hayes could test their relationship in unexpected ways. Given the nature of celebrity culture, it’s not unlikely that Hayes could become involved in a public scandal—whether it’s a romantic entanglement with another celebrity or a controversy involving the band. Some fans believe that such a scandal could rock the foundation of his relationship with Solène, forcing them to confront public opinion, trust issues, and the intensity of living under a microscope.
This theory poses an intriguing question: Can their love withstand the pressure of a major scandal, or will it tear them apart?

The Counter-Theory: They Will Overcome the Scandal
Contrary to the theory of a breakup, other fans are confident that Solène and Hayes’ love will prove resilient in the face of adversity. They believe that their bond is strong enough to overcome any scandal, and that Solène’s maturity will help her weather the storm. The counter-theory suggests that their love will emerge stronger than ever, and they’ll emerge from the scandal even more united.
5. Solène Will Start a New Career to Support Hayes
The Theory: Will Solène’s Career Take a New Direction?
In a twist on the typical love story, some fans have theorized that Solène will leave her job as a gallery owner and embark on a new career to support Hayes’s career in the music industry. Whether it’s becoming his manager, helping with branding, or taking on a more active role in his professional life, fans speculate that Solène’s new career path could be a natural evolution of their relationship.
This theory envisions Solène using her skills to propel Hayes’s career while also finding her own sense of purpose in the process. It’s a storyline that offers both personal growth for Solène and a deeper bond between the characters.
The Counter-Theory: Solène Will Keep Her Independence
On the other side, some fans believe that Solène will maintain her independence and won’t sacrifice her own career ambitions for Hayes’s success. Instead of supporting him in his career, she will continue to build her own life, showcasing her strength and independence as a woman who can have it all—love, career, and self-fulfillment.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Solène and Hayes?
As we’ve seen, The Idea of You has sparked numerous fan theories that explore the possibilities for Solène and Hayes’s future. From the challenges of the age gap to potential scandals and career changes, fans have plenty of ideas about where the story could go. Whether these theories prove true or not, one thing is clear: Solène and Hayes’s journey is one that has captivated the hearts of audiences around the world. Only time will tell what the future holds for these two, but we can’t wait to see how their story unfolds.
Notes:
- Meta description: Curious about the future of Solène and Hayes in The Idea of You? Explore some of the most popular fan theories about their relationship, from age gaps to career decisions, and what could happen next in this captivating love story.
- Tags: The Idea of You, Fan Theories, Romance, Age Gap Romance, Solène, Hayes Campbell, Boy Bands, Anne Hathaway, Nicholas Galitzine, Relationship Theories
- Longtail tags: The Idea of Your movie theories, Solène and Hayes fan theories, what could happen next in The Idea of You, The Idea of Your relationship speculations, fan theories for The Idea of You film
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