Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi are set to take on the iconic roles of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff in Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation of Wuthering Heights. Fennell, known for Promising Young Woman and Saltburn, will write, direct, and produce this new take on Emily Brontë’s classic novel. This marks Fennell’s third film, with Robbie and Elordi reuniting after working together on last year’s blockbuster Barbie and Saltburn, respectively. Filming is scheduled to begin in the UK next year, as the project is currently in pre-production.
First published in 1847, Wuthering Heights tells the story of the intense and destructive relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, set against the moody backdrop of the Yorkshire moors and the titular estate. Fennell announced her plans to adapt the novel via a surprise social media post in July, sparking excitement with a graphic featuring a famous line from the book.
Fennell’s directorial work has been widely praised, with Robbie previously commending her ability to draw audiences deeply into her worlds. Fennell has quickly gained recognition for her distinctive storytelling style and bold narratives, making her take on Wuthering Heights highly anticipated.
Wuthering Heights has been adapted for the screen numerous times, most notably in the 1939 version directed by William Wyler, which starred Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon. Other adaptations include a 2009 miniseries featuring Tom Hardy and Charlotte Riley, and a 2011 film starring Kaya Scodelario and James Howson.
In other news, Robbie is expecting her first child with husband Tom Ackerley, a joyful announcement made in July.