Australian actor Jacob Elordi has faced significant criticism from fans and observers following an incident at Brisbane Airport over the weekend, where he was photographed giving the middle finger to waiting paparazzi. The 28-year-old star, known for his role in Euphoria and currently promoting the new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights, made the blunt gesture that many have described as "bratty" and "classless."
Fans Express Disappointment Online
Social media platforms were quickly flooded with comments from shocked fans who contrasted Elordi's real-life behaviour with the dashing characters he portrays on screen. One user remarked, "Classless as usual when away from the red carpet and interviews," while another added, "Fame has well and truly gone to his head." Further criticism included comments such as "Rude and unnecessary body language" and "Not a good look you are sending your fans," with one observer simply stating, "Definitely no charisma."
Stark Contrast to Red Carpet Persona
The airport incident presented a dramatic departure from the polished image Elordi has cultivated during the press tour for Wuthering Heights alongside co-star Margot Robbie. At the Sydney premiere just days before, Elordi appeared in a sharp blue double-breasted suit, perfectly embodying the gothic romance aesthetic of their latest project. Robbie complemented this with a radiant off-shoulder ivory gown featuring a structured corset bodice and delicate tulle sleeves.
Chemistry and Co-dependency On Set
During promotional interviews, both actors have openly discussed their intense working relationship. Elordi revealed to Fandango that he maintained constant proximity to Robbie on set, stating, "If you have the opportunity to share a film set with Margot Robbie, you're going to make sure you're within five to ten metres at all times." He described their connection as a "mutual obsession" that helped them embody their characters, Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff.
Robbie reciprocated these sentiments, admitting she became "co-dependent" on Elordi during filming. "I'm so codependent with people I work with," she explained. "I think I developed that quite quickly with Jacob too." She noted that his absence left her feeling "really unnerved and unmoored," comparing it to "a kid without their blanket."
Thoughtful Gestures and Commemorative Rings
The actors' bond extended beyond professional collaboration, with Robbie recalling how Elordi filled her room with roses when they filmed on Valentine's Day last year. "I remember thinking on Valentine's Day, oh he's probably a very good boyfriend, 'cause there's a lot of thoughtfulness in this," she said. Their connection was further symbolized by matching signet rings featuring an image of two skeletons embracing and the inscription, "Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same."
Public Relations Comparisons
Some fans have drawn parallels between Elordi and Robbie's red carpet chemistry and what they perceive as similar promotional tactics used by other Hollywood pairs. Specifically, comparisons have been made to Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell's cozy displays during the promotion of their film Anyone But You in 2023, with critics suggesting both duos may be following a similar "PR playbook" to generate buzz.
Despite the controversy surrounding his airport behaviour, Elordi continues to be a central figure in the promotion of Wuthering Heights, a film that has already garnered attention for its raunchy scenes and "severe" content warnings. The contrast between his polished red carpet appearances and his candid airport moment highlights the complex relationship between celebrity personas and their private interactions with media.
