In a much-anticipated adaptation of Emily Brontë's classic novel, Wuthering Heights, Hollywood actor Jacob Elordi has expressed admiration for his young co-star, Owen Cooper, describing him as "intimidating" on set. Elordi, known for his roles in Euphoria and Saltburn, takes on the iconic character of Heathcliff, while Cooper, who recently gained fame for his role in Netflix's Adolescence, portrays the younger version of Heathcliff.
During an interview with 10 News First, Elordi, 27, praised Cooper, 15, saying, "He's a rock star. He's brilliant and he's intimidating." He recounted their first meeting, noting, "I think the first time I met him I asked, 'Are you nervous mate?' and he went, 'No,' and I thought, 'Cool... cool, me neither.' But no, he is a tremendous actor." This sentiment highlights the impressive talent that Cooper has displayed at such a young age, with many already dubbing him the next Robert De Niro.
The adaptation, directed by Emerald Fennell, has already sparked conversations and controversies surrounding its casting choices. The film features a star-studded lineup, including Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Shazad Latif as Edgar Linton. Hong Chau, a 45-year-old actress known for her Oscar-nominated performances, will play Nelly Dean, the housekeeper.
Exclusive images released on April 13, 2025, provide a first look at Elordi as Heathcliff, showcasing a rugged and intense portrayal. Dressed in a long black coat, a gold-buttoned waistcoat, and with longer hair and a gold tooth, Elordi's interpretation of Heathcliff diverges from traditional depictions. Critics have already voiced concerns regarding the casting, arguing that Elordi lacks the racial ambiguity historically associated with the character, who is described in the novel as a "dark-skinned gypsy" with "black eyes." The term "Lascar" is also used in the book to refer to Heathcliff, indicating his mixed heritage.
Margot Robbie, aged 36, was photographed in a voluminous black dress with a matching veil, suggesting a funeral scene during the filming, which began in January 2025. Robbie, who also serves as a producer through her company, LuckyChap, returned to work on the project after giving birth to her first child last year. The production, with a budget of £62 million, aims to deliver a visually stunning and emotionally intense retelling of Brontë's tragic love story.
Fennell, who previously directed critically acclaimed films like Promising Young Woman and Saltburn, is known for her ability to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. In a statement, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group’s Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy expressed their excitement about the project, stating, "From the moment we were introduced to Emerald’s vision for the film, and with an incredible cast led by Margot and Jacob, we were instantly committed to forging a partnership with this team to ensure the movie was brought to theaters around the world." The film is slated for release on February 13, 2026.
The character of Heathcliff has been portrayed numerous times in various adaptations, with notable actors such as Tom Hardy, Ralph Fiennes, and Sir Lawrence Olivier taking on the role. The story centers around Heathcliff, an orphan who falls in love with Catherine Earnshaw, the daughter of the family that adopts him. Their tumultuous relationship is marked by passion, betrayal, and revenge, making it one of literature's most complex love stories.
As the film progresses, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how Elordi and Cooper embody these iconic characters. The anticipation surrounding Wuthering Heights continues to grow, with many eager to see how Fennell’s vision will reimagine Brontë’s timeless tale.
In addition to the main cast, the film will also feature young actors such as Charlotte Mellington as Young Catherine and Vy Nguyen as Young Nelly. The inclusion of a diverse cast has been interpreted by some as an example of "blind casting," a practice that emphasizes talent over traditional character descriptions.
While some fans have expressed disappointment over the casting choices, arguing that the actors appear more suited to modern settings than the bleak moors of 19th-century England, others are excited about the fresh take on the classic story. The film's production team, including Robbie and Fennell, has a history of success, having previously collaborated on projects that received critical acclaim.
As the release date approaches, Wuthering Heights promises to be a captivating blend of classic literature and contemporary filmmaking, drawing in both fans of the novel and new audiences alike. With its rich character portrayals and emotional depth, this adaptation aims to leave a lasting impression on viewers, much like the original story has done for generations.
