Sharon Horgan Says ‘Being in Love’ Changed How She Wrote Her Onscreen Romance in “Youth” (Exclusive)

Sharon Horgan, celebrated for her contributions to television both as a writer and actress, is embarking on a new chapter in her creative career with her latest HBO comedy, “Youth.” Reflecting on her experiences and recent relationship, Horgan gives insight into how these personal developments have shaped her work.

The inspiration for “Youth,” in which Horgan plays Alex, a women navigating love and life after divorce in her fifties, has been maturing in her mind for several years. The concept first emerged in 2019, following the conclusion of her acclaimed series “Catastrophe.” At the time, Horgan was grappling with feelings of uncertainty about her future and the reality of being single after a significant life change. “I was trying to figure out what my next move would be,” Horgan shared. “I was 50 and thinking what’s next, post-divorce, feeling like I might never get out there again.”

However, it was during her work on “Bad Sisters,” another successful project she created and starred in alongside an impressive ensemble cast, that Horgan’s perspective began to shift. “That experience was a pivotal moment for me,” she remarked. After completing “Bad Sisters,” she revisited the earlier script of “Youth” and realised that her outlook on love and relationships had evolved. “I found the document in my laptop. I was like, ‘Oh, I think I have a better perspective on this now,’” she explained, recognising the changes in her own life made her more equipped to explore the themes of love anew.

The timing of creating “Youth” turned out to be serendipitous, as Horgan was in a new romantic relationship while revisiting her script. Her partner, whom she has kept private but referred to as a man nine years younger than herself, was involved in her previous show “Bad Sisters.” This new relationship provided Horgan with a fresh lens through which to approach the narrative. “I felt much more ready to write it, really,” she said, acknowledging that her newfound happiness played a crucial role in her storytelling.

The show portrays Alex’s journey toward finding love again, particularly through her challenging interactions with the character Patrick, played by Rupert Friend. Horgan described crafting the dynamic between Alex and Patrick as “a living, breathing thing.” She reflected on the emotional complexity of romance, noting, “It’s like love in general: you’re so happy and then you’re devastated.” This duality of joy and sorrow is central to the series, echoing her own experiences and reflections on love.

Writing about relationships from a perspective of newfound love, instead of bitterness or despair, has granted Horgan a unique insight. “We’ve all been in relationships that have gone wrong,” she said, adding that viewing it through a loving lens allows for a deeper understanding of the complexities involved. “There’s a sense of — there’s an understanding in there. Not everything works out, not everything goes your way. And I’m so glad I’m writing about this now rather than with bitterness in my heart.”

The casting of Rupert Friend, a renowned actor with a track record of powerful performances, was a significant achievement for Horgan. “We were just beyond lucky to get him,” she enthused, highlighting how vital it was for her that the character of Patrick be deeply relatable and engaging. The chemistry between Horgan and Friend is tangible, as she reflected on his ability to captivate audiences. “I’ve always been a fan of Rupert, for years. He always had the ability to devastate me with his performances,” she shared.

As “Youth” continues to air new episodes every Sunday at 10 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max, viewers are invited to witness not only the comedic exploration of love later in life but also Horgan’s personal evolution. Her ability to weave her personal journey into her work resonates powerfully, making the series relatable to anyone who has experienced the complexities of modern romance.

Overall, Sharon Horgan’s artistic journey is one of resilience and renewal, with “Youth” promising to deliver both laughter and poignant reflections on love, aging, and second chances. Her commitment to sharing these themes from a place of understanding reiterates the importance of personal experiences in storytelling.