What We Know About Emerald Fennell's Next Project: Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights

The windswept moors of Wuthering Heights are set to return to the big screen with Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie portraying Heathcliff and Cathy in Emerald Fennells upcoming film adaptation of Emily Bronts classic novel.

About the Story

Published in 1847, Wuthering Heights tells a dark and passionate tale of love, obsession, and revenge. The story follows Heathcliff, a brooding antihero, and Catherine Earnshaw, his forbidden love from a wealthy family, as their intense emotions spark jealousy, conflict, and tragedy.

Behind the Camera

Emerald Fennell, known for writing and directing Promising Young Woman, is both writer and director of this new adaptation. The film is produced by Margot Robbies LuckyChap Entertainment.

Main Cast

Jacob Elordi, who previously worked with Fennell on Saltburn, takes on the role of Heathcliff, with Margot Robbie as Cathy. Supporting roles feature Alison Oliver, Shazad Latif, Hong Chau, and Owen Cooper, the breakout star from Netflixs Adolescence.

Casting Insights and Controversy

Robbie expressed in interviews that she was drawn to Cathys character and felt a strong connection to her, though she initially wanted to ensure she wouldnt pressure Fennell into casting her. Early casting discussions generated some criticism online. Fans questioned Robbies suitability for Cathy and debated Elordis portrayal of Heathcliff, traditionally described in the novel as dark-skinned. Both Fennell and Robbie have defended the casting, highlighting that Elordi embodies the essence of Heathcliff and that the characters age in the film differs from the teenage version in the novel.

Release Date

The movie is scheduled for a theatrical release on February 13, 2026, coinciding with Valentines Day and a Friday the 13th, an interesting juxtaposition for the storys dark romance.

Trailers and Marketing

Warner Bros. released a teaser on September 3, set to Charli XCXs remix of Everything Is Romantic. The trailer presents a highly sensual vision of the story, blending period elements with contemporary touches, such as Catherines rose-colored sunglasses. A full-length trailer followed on November 13.

Adaptation Style

The film has sparked discussion about its interpretation of Bronts work. Some fans worried the adaptation might lean too heavily on sexual tension. Robbie clarified that the movie emphasizes romance over eroticism, focusing on the emotional intensity and passion between the characters. Fennell aimed to recreate the visceral impact the novel had on her as a teenager, capturing the raw feelings that drive Heathcliff and Catherines story.

Author: Grace Ellison