Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi sparked fresh controversy as new cast photos from their upcoming film ‘Wuthering Heights’ were unveiled at a Los Angeles photo call and world premiere on January 28, 2026. The images, which highlight the stars’ sultry attire and chemistry, have reignited debates over the film’s explicit portrayal of the classic novel, with critics dubbing it ‘soft porn’.
The world premiere event was held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, where director Emerald Fennell walked the red carpet alongside lead actors Robbie and Elordi. The gathering marked a significant moment for the highly anticipated adaptation, which has faced scrutiny since its trailer release last year.
Earlier in the day, a separate photo call in Beverly Hills featured Robbie and Elordi in striking outfits that captured media attention. Robbie wore a fiery red leather mini dress with lingerie-like elements, while Elordi opted for a gray plaid blazer over a black shirt, emphasizing the film’s modern and provocative aesthetic.
‘Wuthering Heights’ is an adaptation of Emily Brontë’s 1847 Gothic novel, reimagined by Fennell with a focus on the intense, often sexual relationship between characters Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. Fennell has openly acknowledged taking creative liberties, styling the film’s title with quotation marks to signify her unique interpretation rather than a faithful recreation.
The controversy stems from the trailer and promotional materials, which emphasize sensual scenes between Robbie and Elordi, leading some fans to accuse the production of reducing the literary masterpiece to ‘soft porn.’ This criticism has persisted, with the new photos further fueling the discourse on social media and entertainment news outlets.
Despite the backlash, the film boasts a strong supporting cast including Hong Chau, Shazad Latif, and Alison Oliver, and features a soundtrack by pop artist Charli XCX, who attended the premiere. The event also drew celebrities like Kathryn Newton and Gideon Adlon, highlighting its buzz within the industry.
Scheduled for release on February 13, 2026, in the United States and the United Kingdom, ‘Wuthering Heights’ aims to attract audiences with its star power and bold direction. However, it remains to be seen whether the provocative approach will resonate with viewers or alienate purists of the original novel.
As the film gears up for its theatrical debut, the ongoing debate underscores broader conversations about adapting classics for modern audiences. Fennell’s version challenges traditional narratives, but the ‘soft porn’ label may impact its reception, making this one of the most talked-about releases of the year.
