AceShowbiz - Since Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie were cast in "Wuthering Heights", discussions have ignited concerning their suitability for the classic roles. Despite the skepticism, casting director Kharmel Cochrane has shed light on director Emerald Fennell's unique vision for the project, which aims to reinterpret the source material in unexpected ways.

"There's definitely going to be some English lit fans that are not going to be happy," Cochrane acknowledged during a recent Q&A at the Sands International Film Festival of St. Andrews in Scotland, as per Deadline Hollywood.

Margot Robbie's portrayal of Catherine Earnshaw has faced scrutiny over her age and appearance. Catherine, who is described in the book as "almost 17," will be played by 34-year-old Robbie. Additionally, a recent set photo showing Robbie with blonde hair while Catherine's hair is described as "brown ringlets," has further fueled debates among purists.

Jacob Elordi's casting as Heathcliff, a character of ambiguous origins often speculated to have African or Romani roots, has perhaps sparked the most controversy.

Heathcliff was previously played by white actors like Ralph Fiennes and Laurence Olivier, but Andrea Arnold made bold decisions with her 2012 adaptation by picking two actors of Afro-Caribbean descent, James Howson and Solomon Glave, as the older and younger Heathcliff.

While addressing the casting controversy, Cochrane teased the audience further, hinting that the set design was equally shocking, with modern elements that may surprise traditionalists even more. She mentioned a scene that might include an unexpected prop: a dog collar.

Emerald Fennell's "Wuthering Heights" is poised to offer a fresh, modern take on Emily Bronte's classic tale. Whether this bold reimagining wins over the skeptics remains to be seen when it hits theaters on February 13, 2026.

Until then, fans are left to speculate on what this innovative version will ultimately bring to one of literature's most enduring love stories.