Adam is originally from Sydney, Australia. The child of former Miss Australia, Sarah Gray, and Welsh actor, Chard Hayward. One of eight children, he moved to the US at a young age. A multi-sport athlete whilst attending high school in Ventura, California. He went on to accept a football scholarship to San Diego State University, where he studied both business and drama. After graduating he began studying at the Actors Art Theatre and The Ruskin School of Acting in Los Angeles, whilst also appearing in numerous theatre productions. Adam's film and television career has covered various genres, with appearances on the TV shows Valentine (2008), The Resistance (2010), Home and Away (1988), and indie film Play On (2010).