Margot Robbie Wasn't Initially Cast as Lead in 'Wuthering Heights' Film

Margot Robbie has revealed she was not originally cast as the lead in Emerald Fennell's upcoming adaptation of 'Wuthering Heights'. Robbie, who was initially a producer on the film, decided to audition for the role of Catherine Earnshaw herself. Her co-star Jacob Elordi, playing Heathcliff, shared he was cast after a simple text message exchange with director Fennell. The film, described as an emotional interpretation of the classic novel, is set for release on February 13.

Key Points: Margot Robbie on 'Wuthering Heights' Casting Process

  • Robbie initially only a producer
  • Robbie pitched herself for the role
  • Jacob Elordi was cast via text
  • Adaptation focuses on emotional experience
  • Film releases February 13
2 min read

Margot Robbie says she was not initially cast as lead in 'Wuthering Heights'

Margot Robbie reveals she wasn't first choice for Catherine Earnshaw in Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights' adaptation, co-starring Jacob Elordi.

"I wasn't always going to be in it... I decided to throw my hat into the ring. - Margot Robbie"

London, February 7

Actor Margot Robbie has revealed that she was not always set to play the lead role of Catherine Earnshaw in the upcoming film Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell, according to People.

Robbie, 35, spoke about the casting process during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, alongside her co-star Jacob Elordi, ahead of the film's release on February 13.

"I wasn't always going to be in it. I was thrilled to be the producer, but at some point, we were talking about Cathy, and I decided to throw my hat into the ring," Robbie said, referring to the character of Catherine Earnshaw, according to People.

She added, "I've always wanted to be one of Emerald's actors and fortunately, she felt the same way. It worked out wonderfully."

It remains unclear how closely Fennell's 2026 adaptation will follow Emily Brontë's 1847 gothic novel. Fennell is best known for films such as Saltburn and Promising Young Woman.

In Wuthering Heights, Jacob Elordi, 28, plays Heathcliff, an orphan who develops an intense bond with Catherine, the daughter of the wealthy family that takes him in. The story explores themes of doomed romance, class divide and generational impact.

"Emerald loves the book and she really focused on the feeling it gave her when she first read it at 14," Robbie said. "She channels that raw emotional experience so it's an interpretation rather than an adaptation."

"In my opinion, it is one of the greatest love stories of all time and it has a great cast and incredible actors. It's a great film," she added.

The film also stars Hong Chau, Alison Oliver, Shazad Latif, Martin Clunes and Ewan Mitchell. Charlotte Mellington and Adolescence actor Owen Cooper portray the younger versions of Catherine and Heathcliff, according to People.

Elordi said his casting came as a surprise. "I was traveling when I got a text message from [Fennell] saying, 'Do you want to be Heathcliff?' and I wrote, 'Yeah,'" he told The Graham Norton Show, according to People.

Wuthering Heights is scheduled for release on Friday, February 13, ahead of Valentine's Day.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Always good to see actors who are also passionate producers. Margot Robbie advocating for herself is inspiring. The cast looks stellar, especially with talents like Hong Chau. Hope the film captures the gothic essence for modern audiences.
S
Sarah B
Releasing it right before Valentine's Day is smart marketing, but calling it "one of the greatest love stories" is a bit of a stretch? It's more about obsession and revenge than pure love. Hope the adaptation doesn't romanticize the toxic parts. 🤔
R
Rohit P
Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff is a fascinating choice! The man has intensity. And Shazad Latif is in it too? That's a win for representation. Can't wait to see this new take. Bollywood should take notes on how to adapt classics without just remaking songs 😄
M
Meera T
The themes of class divide and generational impact are so universal. They resonate deeply in our society too. I hope the film highlights these aspects and isn't just a glossy period drama. Fennell's previous work gives me confidence.
K
Karthik V
"I wrote, 'Yeah'" – Jacob's casual casting story is hilarious! Sounds like it was meant to be. Good on Robbie for putting herself forward. Shows you have to back your own talent sometimes. Excited for this!

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