Wuthering Heights: Why Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi's 'mutual obsession' is giving some fans the ick
BBC World
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The new adaptation of *Wuthering Heights* has sparked controversy as Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi's on-set chemistry has spilled into their promotional efforts, with fans questioning whether their "mutual obsession" is genuine or a calculated PR move. The actors have been openly gushing about each other during interviews, with Robbie describing Elordi as someone she couldn't live without and Elordi calling her his muse. These comments, paired with romantic gestures like flower-filled rooms and matching signet rings engraved with quotes from the novel, have created a buzz that some fans find over-the-top.
Critics argue that this manufactured romance risks overshadowing the film's darker themes of obsession and toxicity. The movie is based on Emily Brontë's classic novel, which explores a complex and often disturbing relationship between Cathy and Heathcliff. However, the promotional tactics have led some to believe the film will be a light-hearted romance, setting up potential disappointment. Fans like Rebecca Greene feel that while the marketing strategy grabs attention, it goes too far, especially given that the actors are married individuals with children.
The strategy of using on-screen chemistry for promotion is not new, with examples like *A Star Is Born* and *Anyone But You* employing similar tactics. However, in this case, the over-the-top displays have left some viewers feeling irritated or even deceived. Ashlee-Rose Brisley, an actress and producer, notes that the hype around Robbie and Elordi's relationship feels fake, particularly since they are not romantically linked in real life. This has led to a backlash, with fans like Keedy Perestroika calling the "soulmate" narrative tiresome and Gemma Haynes feeling that it cheapens the film's intended message.
Ultimately, the question remains: does this promotional strategy help or hurt the movie? While it may generate buzz, it risks misrepresenting the story
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/14/2026