Margot Robbie has spoken out in support of her Wuthering Heights co-star Jacob Elordi, responding to ongoing reactions about his casting as Heathcliff in Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation. The discussion comes as Elordi, fresh off praise for his performance in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, prepares to take on a role long associated with actors such as Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton, Ralph Fiennes, and Tom Hardy.
Controversy Surrounds Elordi’s Portrayal of Heathcliff
Debate began circulating after Elordi, known for his recent role as Felix Catton in Saltburn, was selected to play Heathcliff, a character described in Emily Brontë’s original novel as dark-skinned. Fans questioned whether Elordi was the right fit for the iconic figure, but Margot Robbie—who stars opposite him as Cathy—urged viewers not to rush to judgment.
“I saw him play Heathcliff. And he is Heathcliff,”
– Margot Robbie, Actor
“I’d say, just wait. Trust me, you’ll be happy.”
– Margot Robbie, Actor
Robbie’s Assurance for Fans and Praise for Elordi’s Talent
Recognizing Heathcliff’s legacy and the long line of acclaimed actors who have previously portrayed the character, Robbie emphasized the uniqueness of joining such a tradition. She expressed strong confidence in Elordi’s ability, suggesting that audiences will be satisfied with his performance.
“It’s a character that has this lineage of other great actors who’ve played him, from Laurence Olivier to Richard Burton and Ralph Fiennes to Tom Hardy. To be a part of that is special,”
– Margot Robbie, Actor
“He’s incredible and I believe in him so much.”
– Margot Robbie, Actor
“I honestly think he’s our generation’s Daniel Day-Lewis.”
– Margot Robbie, Actor
Robbie Addresses Criticism of Her Own Casting
Robbie herself has faced scrutiny for her casting as Cathy, with critics noting that the character is both younger and brunette in Brontë’s novel, while Robbie is older and blonde. Director Emerald Fennell responded by confirming Robbie’s version of Cathy would be older than the literary original, spanning her mid-20s into her early 30s throughout the film, which seeks a different perspective.
Robbie acknowledged fans’ reactions surrounding her casting candidly, noting that audiences will ultimately have to see the film before passing final judgment.
“There’s nothing else to go off at this point until people see the movie.”
– Margot Robbie, Actor
Elordi’s Recent Roles and the Film’s Imminent Release
Jacob Elordi’s recent recognition has grown since his transformation as The Creature in Frankenstein, directed by Guillermo del Toro. His collaboration with Emerald Fennell began prior to Wuthering Heights, notably with his portrayal of Felix Catton in Saltburn. The highly anticipated film, set to bring together prominent talents such as Oscar-nominee Robbie and rising star Elordi, will premiere in theaters on February 13, 2026.
As Wuthering Heights approaches its release, the spotlight remains on how Elordi will interpret Heathcliff and whether his performance will earn him a place among the iconic actors before him. The film’s take on both the characters of Cathy and Heathcliff suggests a fresh perspective for a new generation, reinforcing the enduring power of Emily Brontë’s creation in contemporary cinema.
