Margot Robbie Defends Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights', Says: "People Will Be Surprised"
The actress asks viewers to give the new adaptation a chance.
Emerald Fennell's new adaptation of Emily Brontë's classic novel Wuthering Heights is already one of the most talked-about and controversial projects scheduled for release in 2026.
Since the casting announcement of Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in the lead roles, the movie has faced a wave of online criticism.
Margot Robbie Asks Viewers to Give a Chance to Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights'
In response, Robbie asked viewers to give Wuthering Heights a chance, promising that it would surprise them. Margot Robbie addressed the skeptics who criticized the casting of Catherine and Heathcliff.
Robbie acknowledged that she and her co-star, Elordi, differ in appearance from traditional Brontë characters but insisted that Jacob perfectly captured the essence of the role. Margot said:
“I saw him play Heathcliff. And he is Heathcliff. I'd say, just wait. Trust me, you'll be happy.”
'Wuthering Heights' Is More Romantic Than Provocative, According to Robbie
Robbie also tried to moderate expectations, noting that, contrary to rumors, the movie will not be overtly vulgar but rather romantic:
“Everyone's expecting this to be very, very raunchy. I think people will be surprised. Not to say there aren't sexual elements and that it's not provocative – it definitely is provocative – but it's more romantic than provocative. This is a big epic romance.”
According to Robbie, Emerald Fennell sees Wuthering Heights as a potential Titanic for a modern generation – a movie that will evoke strong emotions and compel repeat viewings.
What Do Critics & First Viewers Think of 'Wuthering Heights'?
However, the initial impressions from the August 2025 test screenings diverge from this romantic vision. Audiences described Fennell's movie as deliberately provocative, aggressive, and devoid of the sentimentality that characterizes many previous adaptations.
As with her previous film, Saltburn, the director doesn't shy away from shocking scenes; the opening sequence features a brutal public execution. The movie also features hypersexualized imagery, including a BDSM scene.
While Robbie and Elordi's performances have been praised, their characters have been described as deliberately repulsive and emotionally cold, making it difficult for viewers to empathize with them.
When Will 'Wuthering Heights' Be Released?
There's a significant gap between the film crew's promises and initial reactions, making the February 13, 2026, premiere of Wuthering Heights one of the most highly anticipated and controversial film events of the year.
