At the Los Angeles premiere of the film Wuthering Heights, actress Margot Robbie sparked a wave of chatter among fans after making a surprising comment about her husband. Speaking on the red carpet, the 35-year-old star mentioned she would see the drama with her “husband… or whoever,” prompting viewers to speculate about the nature of her relationship. This unexpected slip-up quickly went viral, drawing jokes about an open relationship and sparking lively discussions among her followers.
The mention of her husband occurred as Robbie discussed the film’s upcoming release, sharing why it was scheduled for February 13, just before Valentine’s Day. The actress explained her choice of release date by highlighting different viewing companions for the film, blending humor and casualness in her remarks.
The Reasoning Behind the Valentine’s Weekend Premiere
Margot Robbie, who produced the new version of Wuthering Heights through her production company LuckyChap Entertainment, explained that the timing of the release was deliberate. She said she would like to watch the film with her girlfriends on a Friday night, enjoying cocktails and dressing up for a fun girls’ night out. Then, she added, she would see the movie with her husband—or whoever—on Valentine’s Day itself, making it “the perfect weekend.”
Fans familiar with Robbie’s previous comments and public persona, especially following her 2023 hit, Barbie, immediately connected this idea to the concept of “girls’ night,” joking that it might now be a permanent arrangement. Her flippant remark about “husband… or whoever” quickly became a social media meme, as people embraced the humor and speculated on its implications.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The slip-up during the red carpet interview was captured in a clip shared by The Hollywood Reporter on TikTok, where fans responded enthusiastically. Comments ranged from amusement to playful curiosity, with some reacting sympathetically toward her husband Tom Ackerley. Users wrote things like
“My husband or Jacob Elordi, or whoever????”
and
“Do they have an open marriage or .. ??”
reflecting both surprise and humor. Laughter-filled replies such as “husband or whoever LOLOL” echoed through the social platforms, signaling the viral nature of the comment.
Margot Robbie’s husband, Tom Ackerley, who co-founded LuckyChap Entertainment with her, quietly appeared at the premiere. He cut a sharp figure in a black tuxedo, maintaining a poised presence despite the online buzz surrounding the comment about him. The couple, who met on a film set in 2013, later married privately and welcomed their son in October 2024, keeping his name out of the public eye.
Margot Robbie’s Stunning Appearance and Iconic Jewelry at the Premiere
While the remark grabbed plenty of attention, Margot Robbie’s striking red carpet look was equally notable. She wore a couture gown by Schiaparelli that captured the spotlight, accentuated by a dazzling heart-shaped pendant once belonging to Elizabeth Taylor, valued at an estimated $8 million. The necklace was worn high on her neck with the gold chain trailing elegantly down her back, adding classic glamour to her modern ensemble.
About the Film: A Bold Take on a Gothic Classic
Wuthering Heights is a fresh adaptation of Emily Brontë’s gothic romance, set for release on February 13. Directed by Emerald Fennell, who also collaborated with Robbie and Ackerley as producers, this adaptation updates the narrative while aiming to respect the source material’s intense emotions and dramatic power.
Robbie stars as Cathy Earnshaw, the lead character whose passionate and tragic love story with Heathcliff—played by Jacob Elordi—unfolds against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors. This retelling emphasizes the raw and modern overtones of the story, sparking attention not only for its casting choices but also for its tone and style.
Controversy Over Casting and Interpretation
Some critics have expressed dissatisfaction with the casting decisions, particularly objecting to Jacob Elordi portraying Heathcliff. Author Emily Brontë described Heathcliff as “dark-skinned” in the novel, and detractors argue that Elordi’s appearance does not align with this description. Additionally, some have questioned Robbie’s age, considering Cathy a teenage character in the original story, thereby challenging her suitability for the role.
Director Emerald Fennell addressed these criticisms by emphasizing the nature of adaptation. She explained that the film is not a direct replica of the novel but rather a version shaped by her vision. Fennell stated the need for someone
“like Margot… somebody who has a godlike power, that means people lose their minds”
to embody Cathy’s intensity.
Fennell noted,
“You can’t adapt a book as dense, complicated and difficult as Wuthering Heights, so you create a version of it rather than a replica.”
She mentioned consulting with the Brontë Parsonage Museum and other fans of the book to ensure the film honors the original’s spirit.
“It is Wuthering Heights and it isn’t,”
she said, describing the adaptation’s delicate balance.
Production Perspectives: Vision and Costume Design
The film’s costume designer, Jacqueline Durran, defended the choice of wardrobe following social media backlash. Many fans criticized Robbie’s outfits as “hideous,” unhappy with the departure from historical accuracy. Durran explained to Vogue that creating a balance between Victorian influences and modern elements was crucial to reflect Cathy’s character. She described the costumes as incorporating “shiny surfaces” to give a contemporary sheen while capturing the Victorian silhouette.
She also acknowledged mixing eras by saying, “The dates are all confused,” stressing that the team focused on selecting clothes that suited each character rather than striving for strict period accuracy. This approach aimed to emphasize the emotional and symbolic qualities over traditional costume expectations.
Meanwhile, the film is supported by a soundtrack featuring Charli XCX, known as the Queen of BRAT, who brings a modern and edgy tone to the movie’s atmosphere.
The Impact of Margot Robbie’s Statement and Film Release
Margot Robbie’s candid and somewhat offhand comment about her husband reflects how easily moments on the red carpet can generate extensive media attention and fan speculation. While lighthearted in nature, the remark highlights how public perceptions of celebrity relationships can quickly become topics of intrigue and amusement.
The anticipation around Wuthering Heights continues to grow, with conversations focusing not only on the narrative and performances but also on the creative choices made in this ambitious adaptation. The film’s release just before Valentine’s Day positions it to tap into audiences seeking romantic drama, with Robbie’s involvement as both lead actress and producer enhancing its profile.
As viewers prepare for the February 13 premiere, the film’s modernized portrayal of a classic story, combined with its high-profile cast and striking costumes, will likely provoke further debate and discussion among critics and audiences alike.
