The press tour for the upcoming adaptation of Wuthering Heights has taken a notably intimate turn, with stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi showcasing their deepening off-screen bond through a symbolic gesture. The Australian actors, who portray the iconic lovers Cathy and Heathcliff in director Emerald Fennell's reinterpretation of Emily Brontë's classic novel, have exchanged matching signet rings, sparking intrigue among fans and media alike.
A Thoughtful Gift with Literary Significance
Rather than opting for temporary or permanent body art, Robbie, 35, gifted her co-star a pair of custom-designed rings created by UK designer Cece Fein-Hughes. The intricate pieces feature two skeletons embracing amidst red roses, set within a gold oval frame. Encircling the figures is the poignant quote from the novel: 'Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.' This exchange follows Robbie's candid admission that the pair have become 'obsessed' with each other, a sentiment that has clearly translated into a meaningful token of their connection.
Valentine's Day Gestures and On-Set Chemistry
The actors' rapport extends beyond the jewellery, with Elordi, 28, having surprised Robbie on Valentine's Day last year by filling her room with roses during filming. Robbie recalled the moment in an interview with Vogue Australia, praising his thoughtfulness and remarking, 'You definitely beat me.' She added that she had not reciprocated with a gift, noting his gesture felt 'epic' and indicative of his potential as a 'very good boyfriend.' Elordi further personalised the occasion by writing a note on a handcrafted 'little tombstone thing,' which Robbie described as both 'meaningful and dramatic.'
Their chemistry was evident from the outset of production. Robbie revealed to Fandango that Elordi would often linger nearby, watching her perform as Cathy, to the point where his absence left her feeling 'unnerved, and unmoored.' She likened it to 'a kid without their blanket,' underscoring the comfort she found in his presence. Elordi echoed this intensity, describing a 'mutual obsession' and stating that, regardless of the project, he would want to remain within five to ten metres of Robbie at all times. He attributed this to her prowess as 'an elite actor' and producer, expressing being 'enamoured by her.' Both actors reportedly 'hated' days when the other was absent, with Elordi feeling they were capturing fragments of Cathy and Heathcliff's famed, unrequited love.
Controversy Surrounds the Adaptation
Fennell's adaptation, scheduled for release on February 13, 2026, has already generated significant controversy prior to its debut. The trailer, characterised by heavy breathing, sweaty scenes, and a soundtrack featuring Charli XCX's Everything is Romantic, has been dubbed '50 Shades of Brontë' online. Leaked details from preview screenings hint at provocative content, including a nun fondling a corpse and a 'BDSM-tinged encounter.' Additionally, the casting has drawn criticism, with some arguing that Robbie and Elordi are too old to portray teenage characters, and others questioning Elordi's role as Heathcliff, a character many interpret as a person of colour based on the novel's descriptions.
Director's Creative Approach
Fennell has defended her vision, admitting to WSJ. Magazine that some risqué elements stem from her early memories of the book, which she later realised were not explicitly in the text. She asserts that a 'true adaptation' is impossible, so she is adapting her recollection of the story. Elordi supports this approach, calling Fennell's work 'really perfect and super beautiful,' and viewing the fan reaction as inevitable but not negative.
As the release date approaches, the matching rings serve as a tangible emblem of the stars' close bond, mirroring the intense, dramatic themes of the film itself. Audiences anticipating a traditional rendition of Brontë's tale may find themselves in for a modern, soundtrack-driven shock, but one thing is clear: the connection between Robbie and Elordi adds a personal layer to this already headline-grabbing production.
