The cinematic world is currently buzzing with the electrifying Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry that has defined Emerald Fennell’s 2026 adaptation of Wuthering Heights. As two of Australia’s most prominent exports to Hollywood, Robbie and Elordi have taken on the iconic roles of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, delivering performances that critics describe as both “intoxicating” and “explosive.” Their on-screen connection has become a central talking point of the film’s release, moving beyond mere acting into a realm of deep, almost “co-dependent” artistry. This creative partnership has not only revitalized Emily Brontë’s classic gothic tale but also set a new standard for modern romantic duos in film.
Celebrity Biography Comparison: The Faces of Wuthering Heights
| Full Name | Margot Elise Robbie | Jacob Nathaniel Elordi |
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1990 | June 26, 1997 |
| Age (2026) | 35 Years Old | 28 Years Old |
| Birthplace | Dalby, Queensland, Australia | Brisbane, Queensland, Australia |
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) | 6’5″ (196 cm) |
| Breakout Role | Naomi Lapaglia (The Wolf of Wall Street) | Noah Flynn (The Kissing Booth) |
| Major Accolades | 2x Oscar Nominee, BAFTA & Golden Globe Nominee | Critics Choice Winner, Oscar & BAFTA Nominee |
| Known For | Barbie, Suicide Squad, I, Tonya | Euphoria, Saltburn, Priscilla |
| 2026 Project | Wuthering Heights (Star & Producer) | Wuthering Heights, The Dog Stars |
| Chemistry Factor | Intense “Codependent” acting style | “Combustible” leading man magnetism |
The Viral Impact of Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi Chemistry
Since the first trailers for Wuthering Heights dropped in late 2025, the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry has been a focal point for fans and critics alike. The pairing of the Academy Award-nominated Robbie with the rising star power of Elordi created an immediate sensation on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Early reactions from screenings in early February 2026 suggest that their connection “leaps off the screen,” capturing the “breathtaking ache” of forbidden desire. This intense rapport is essential for a story as volatile as Wuthering Heights, where the leads must convince the audience of a love that is as destructive as it is eternal.
Casting the Australian Power Duo

Director Emerald Fennell made a bold choice by casting two Australian leads for such a quintessential British story. Margot Robbie, aged 35 at the time of the film’s release, took on the role of Catherine, while Jacob Elordi stepped into the brooding shoes of Heathcliff. Despite some initial controversy regarding age and racial representation—given the novel’s descriptions of Heathcliff—Fennell defended her choice by citing the raw, undeniable connection between the two stars. The Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry was apparent from their first screen tests, proving that their shared cultural background and mutual respect for the craft would provide the necessary spark for this reimagining.
Emerald Fennell’s Creative Vision
In the February 13, 2026 release of Wuthering Heights, Fennell leans into the “sensual and provocative” elements of the source material. Known for her visually striking work in Saltburn and Promising Young Woman, Fennell used the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry to anchor a film that is described as a “dark pop opera.” She intentionally leaned into the “sado-masochistic” undertones of the original text, allowing Robbie and Elordi to explore the darker, more “toxic” aspects of their characters’ relationship. This vision transformed the period drama into a visceral experience that prioritizes emotional and physical intensity over traditional literary pacing.
Developing a Codependent Connection

To prepare for their roles, Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi reportedly engaged in unconventional rehearsal methods. Robbie has mentioned in interviews that they became almost “codependent” during the filming process to mirror the obsessive nature of Cathy and Heathcliff. To further foster the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry, Fennell even created “shrines” in their respective dressing rooms filled with photos of one another. This immersive approach helped the actors tap into the “infatuation” required for the film, ensuring that every glance and touch shared on screen felt steeped in years of shared history and longing.
Red Carpet Magic and Press Tour Bond
The Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry was not confined to the film set. During the global press tour in early 2026, the duo appeared at premieres in London, Paris, and Los Angeles, displaying a close-knit bond that captivated photographers. In Paris, they were seen wearing matching rings gifted by Robbie, engraved with the famous Brontë quote: “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” At the London premiere, they arrived arm-in-arm amidst a cinematic rainstorm, a moment fans called “uncannily perfect” for the actors portraying the storm-lashed lovers of the Yorkshire moors.
The Role of Method Dressing
Fashion played a significant role in highlighting the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry during their public appearances. Stylist Andrew Mukamal worked with Robbie to create “Gothic-inspired” looks, such as a custom Dilara Findikoglu gown that featured a replica of Charlotte Brontë’s mourning bracelet. Meanwhile, Elordi’s “brooding and muted” ensembles acted as a visual anchor to Robbie’s more ethereal and structured gowns. This deliberate “method dressing” reinforced their on-screen personas, making their partnership feel like a cohesive narrative even outside the confines of the movie theater.
Critical Reception of the Leading Pair
While the film itself received polarized reviews for its “maximalist” style, critics were nearly unanimous in praising the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry. Reviews from major outlets like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter noted that the two stars “sizzle” on screen, elevating the film into a “must-see” event for 2026. Critics highlighted that while Robbie played into Catherine’s “spoiled and selfish” nature, Elordi’s Heathcliff provided a “combustible magnetism” that kept the audience engaged through the film’s 136-minute runtime. Their ability to balance “yearning” with “filth” was cited as the film’s greatest strength.
Comparing Chemistry to Previous Adaptations
The Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry is frequently compared to past iterations of Wuthering Heights, such as the 1939 version starring Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon. Unlike the more restrained performances of the past, the 2026 version embraces a “horny and unhinged” energy. This modern take focuses on the “physical desire” and “mind games” between the characters, moving away from the “brooding gothic” tropes of the mid-20th century. By doing so, Robbie and Elordi have created a version of Cathy and Heathcliff that resonates more with a generation accustomed to the high-stakes drama of shows like Bridgerton.
The Significance of the “Australian Connection”

Much of the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry can be attributed to their shared Australian roots. Both actors have spoken about the ease of working with a fellow countryman, noting a similar “work ethic” and sense of humour. Robbie described Elordi as “exceptionally easy to work with,” while Elordi praised Robbie’s ability to sell the complexity of a character who is often “one-note” in lesser adaptations. This mutual ease allowed them to take greater risks during the film’s more “erotic and revealing” scenes, trusting one another to push the boundaries of the characters’ “explosive toxic desire.”
Musical Influence on Their Rapport
The atmosphere on set was further enhanced by the film’s soundtrack, composed of original songs by Charli XCX. The “dark pop” energy of the music reportedly influenced the rhythm of the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry. Fennell used the music to heighten the “agony and ecstasy” of their scenes, creating a sensory experience where the visuals and audio worked in tandem with the actors’ performances. This modern sonic layer helped Robbie and Elordi bridge the gap between the 19th-century setting and the “feverish hormones” of their characters’ young love.
Behind the Scenes: Building the Romance
In interviews with TODAY and The Hollywood Reporter, the stars revealed that their connection was “set up to succeed” by Fennell’s direction. Beyond the “shrines,” the actors spent significant time exploring the “Yorkshire Moors” to tap into the “untamed” nature of their characters. This preparation ensured that the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry felt grounded in the environment. Whether they were “playing and taunting” one another in challenging scenes or sharing quiet moments between takes, the production elements were all designed to keep the central romance at the heart of the “maximalist” production.
Legacy of the Robbie-Elordi Partnership
As Wuthering Heights continues its theatrical run in February 2026, the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry is likely to leave a lasting impact on their careers. For Robbie, it marks another successful collaboration with Emerald Fennell and a bold step into more “melodramatic and raw” territory. For Elordi, it solidifies his status as a “leading man with combustible magnetism.” Together, they have proven that even the most classic stories can be made “new and thrilling” when the central performers possess a rare and undeniable spark.
Conclusion: A New Standard for Gothic Romance
The Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry in Wuthering Heights is more than just a marketing hook; it is the emotional heartbeat of a film that dares to be “bold, colourful, and messy.” By leaning into the “obsessive and destructive” nature of Catherine and Heathcliff, Margot Robbie and Elordi have delivered a performance that honours Brontë’s spirit while updating it for 2026 audiences. Their “co-dependent” artistry and “scorching” on-screen presence ensure that this adaptation will be remembered as a “god-tier new classic” in the realm of cinematic romance.
FAQs About Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi Chemistry
1. When was the movie Wuthering Heights starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi released?
The film was released globally on February 13, 2026, following its world premiere earlier in the month.
2. How did Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi prepare for their chemistry?
Director Emerald Fennell used unconventional methods, including making “shrines” of the actors in their dressing rooms and encouraging a “codependent” working relationship to mimic the characters’ infatuation.
3. What have critics said about the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi chemistry?
Critics have described their chemistry as “a whole other level of hot,” “explosive,” and “intoxicating,” noting that their connection is the strongest element of the film.
4. Are Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi friends in real life?
Yes, the two Australian stars developed a close bond during filming and the press tour, even getting matching “soul” rings to commemorate their time working together.
5. Who directed the film featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi?
The film was directed by Emerald Fennell, who also directed Promising Young Woman and Saltburn.
6. What is the soundtrack for the film like?
The soundtrack features original music by Charli XCX, which contributes to the film’s “modern pop opera” aesthetic and enhances the intensity of the lead actors’ chemistry.


