The Hidden Connection: Unveiling the Real-Life Inspiration Behind Umbrella Academy's Hargreeves Siblings

Gerard Way, the lead singer of My Chemical Romance and the author of The Umbrella Academy graphic novels turned Netflix series, sparks curiosity about the potential influence between the band and the comic book. The Umbrella Academy originally started as a graphic novel series and transitioned into a successful Netflix show in 2019. With three seasons released and a fourth and final season confirmed for late 2023 or early 2024, audiences ponder the connection between My Chemical Romance and The Umbrella Academy.

While My Chemical Romance and The Umbrella Academy possess notable differences, it is natural to speculate on their mutual inspiration. As both creations are guided by Gerard Way, it is inevitable that certain similarities would emerge. Both the band and the graphic novels explore dark themes and delve into the complexities of identity within a vast and challenging world. These similarities and differences ultimately raise questions regarding the extent of My Chemical Romance's influence on The Umbrella Academy.

The Umbrella Academy Characters Are Not Based On My Chemical Romance

The characters in The Umbrella Academy are not based on the real members of My Chemical Romance. The rock band currently has four members: Gerard Way as the lead vocalist, Ray Toro as the lead guitarist, Frank Iero as the rhythm guitarist, and Mikey Way as the bassist. On the other hand, The Umbrella Academy features seven main characters: Luther, Diego, Allison, Klaus, Number Five, Ben, and Vanya, who are all Hargreeves siblings. Each sibling possesses unique superpowers, such as Number Five's ability to time travel or Luther's half-human, half-gorilla physique.

Although My Chemical Romance and The Umbrella Academy share a creator, there is no confirmation or indication that the Hargreeves children or any other supporting character represents a My Chemical Romance band member. Gerard Way mentioned in an interview with Rolling Stone that there are fragments of himself and his bandmates in the characters, reflecting the various roles they played in the band. However, these connections are not direct.

How My Chemical Romance Influenced Umbrella Academy's Hargreeves Family

The characters in The Umbrella Academy were influenced by the members of My Chemical Romance, and the graphic novels themselves also reflect the band's themes. Both emphasize the importance of family dynamics. Gerard Way, in an interview with Rolling Stone, describes being in a band as similar to a dysfunctional family, with distinct and larger-than-life personalities not only within the band but also among those encountered on the road or within the crew. This mirrors the chaos and complicated relationships within the Hargreeves family.

Additionally, Way's break from working on The Umbrella Academy coincided with significant events for My Chemical Romance. The band broke up in 2013 and then reunited in 2019, which had an impact on Way and influenced his approach to writing the graphic novels. Once again, themes of family discord manifested in the storyline. Moreover, Way's experience of becoming a father played a role in shaping The Umbrella Academy. He reflects on how it taught him to let go of his ego, gain humility, and learn the importance of listening.

Umbrella Academy's MCR Influence Makes The Show More Relatable

Gerard Way's involvement in My Chemical Romance greatly influences the key themes presented in The Umbrella Academy, adding a relatable aspect to the series. Despite the inclusion of talking chimpanzees, superhero children, and captivating violin solos, the story maintains a sense of humanity. This is achieved through the incorporation of the band's genuine discord, chaos, and unique relationships. As a result, The Umbrella Academy becomes more focused on the relatable theme of family rather than solely on superheroes and super villains.

Although The Umbrella Academy does not directly reference My Chemical Romance, the connection between the two is undeniable due to Gerard Way's contributions. Without the band's influence, it is unlikely that the graphic novel series would possess the same elements and themes that it does today. Ultimately, both the band and the comics mesh together to create unforgettable narratives revolving around family dynamics, relationships, and the challenges of navigating a world that is often unwelcoming and unkind.

Source: Rolling Stone