Newly surfaced photos from the set of Wuthering Heights have set off a heated discussion online, with many questioning Margot Robbie’s suitability for the role of Catherine Earnshaw in the latest adaptation of Emily Brontë’s literary classic.
Robbie, 34, takes on the role of Cathy alongside Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff in the film directed by Emerald Fennell, known for her strong storytelling in Promising Young Woman and Saltburn. While the casting announcement initially drew intrigue, the release of on-set images has reignited concerns about historical accuracy and even character portrayal.
The primary criticism centres around Robbie’s age. In Brontë’s novel, Cathy’s life is tragically short as she dies in childbirth before turning 20. The age disparity has led fans to question whether Robbie, despite her acting prowess, can convincingly embody the youthful intensity that defines Cathy’s arc.
Additionally, the images have sparked debate over costume choices. Robbie is seen in an elaborate white wedding gown with a voluminous skirt and tiara, a look that many feel clashes with the late 18th-century setting of the novel. “This doesn’t look remotely like something from Cathy’s time,” one fan commented online. Others have pointed out that the character’s rugged, windswept aesthetic very integral to her identity, seems missing in Robbie’s polished appearance.
Criticism isn’t new when it comes to Wuthering Heights adaptations. Previous versions have also deviated from the novel’s historical and character accuracy. Merle Oberon and Juliette Binoche were both older than the character they played, while Kaya Scodelario was a closer fit in age. However, with a renewed focus on authenticity in casting, fans argue that the film industry should strive for more accurate representation.
Aside from Robbie, Elordi’s casting as Heathcliff has also been scrutinised. Heathcliff’s ambiguous ethnic background, described in the book as “dark-skinned” and different from the fair-skinned Earnshaws has long been a point of discussion. Some viewers were hoping for a more diverse casting choice, prompting fan suggestions like Dev Patel for the role.
Despite the backlash, Fennell’s track record suggests she may take a fresh approach to the material. The director’s previous films have modernised storytelling conventions, leading some to believe Wuthering Heights may not be a straightforward period adaptation.
With the film slated for a February 2026 release, audiences will have to wait to see how Fennell interprets Brontë’s tragic love story and whether the casting decisions ultimately win over the fans.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.