All eyes were firmly fixed on pop sensation Charli XCX as she graced the world premiere of Emerald Fennell's highly anticipated adaptation of Wuthering Heights on Wednesday evening. The event, held at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, marked a significant moment for the 33-year-old Boom Clap hitmaker, who composed the original soundtrack for this bold, R-rated reimagining of Emily Brontë's timeless literary classic.
A Dramatic Fashion Statement
Charli XCX commanded attention on the red carpet in a breathtaking gown that masterfully blended structure and volume. The dress featured a boned, structured gold bodice that accentuated her figure, providing a striking lift to her bust and cinching her waist dramatically. This was contrasted spectacularly with an extravagant, voluminous puffball skirt crafted from sumptuous layers of tulle, creating a silhouette that was both avant-garde and glamorous.
In a signature move that defies conventional red-carpet polish, Charli embraced her distinctive 'Brat' aesthetic. She opted for a pared-back, barely-there makeup look and styled her hair in artfully mussed waves, showcasing a raw and authentic form of glamour that has become her trademark.
Joining the Promotional Trail
The premiere saw Charli joining the film's leading stars on the promotional circuit. She was photographed alongside the film's central pair: Margot Robbie, 35, who takes on the pivotal role of Catherine Earnshaw, and Jacob Elordi, 28, who portrays the brooding love interest, Heathcliff. The group was also joined by director Emerald Fennell and supporting cast members Hong Chau, Alison Oliver, and Shazad Latif.
Charli's involvement extends beyond the red carpet; her musical contribution to the film has already garnered significant acclaim. The song House, a collaboration with Velvet Underground rocker John Cale, was released in November to widespread praise. Reflecting on her work for the soundtrack, Charli has shared her deep connection to the source material, stating: 'When I think of Wuthering Heights, I think of many things. I think of passion and pain. I think of England. I think of the Moors, I think of the mud and the cold. I think of determination and grit.'
Spotlight on the Leads and Their Chemistry
The premiere was not without its moments of palpable on-screen chemistry spilling into the real world. Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, who have openly discussed their intense working relationship, sent fans into a frenzy by holding hands at the star-studded event. However, both actors are firmly committed elsewhere.
Margot Robbie is married to film producer Tom Ackerley, 35. The couple, who wed in 2016 and share a one-year-old son, co-founded the production company LuckyChap Entertainment, which is behind this adaptation of Wuthering Heights. Ackerley stood proudly beside his wife at the premiere in a classic black tuxedo.
Jacob Elordi has been in an on-again, off-again relationship with influencer Olivia Jade Giannulli, 26, since 2021. Unlike Ackerley, Giannulli did not appear to attend the LA premiere.
A Symbolic Gift
Adding to the narrative of their deep connection to the film's characters, it was revealed earlier this week that Margot Robbie gifted Jacob Elordi a matching signet ring. Each intricate ring is engraved with an image of two skeletons embracing and the poignant quote from the novel: 'Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.' They are also inscribed with the initials of their characters, Cathy and Heathcliff, and the dates '1847-2026'—marking the year of the novel's publication and the film's forthcoming release.
Directed by Emerald Fennell, this new adaptation of Wuthering Heights is described as a film 'set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors,' tracing the 'intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw.' The movie is scheduled for theatrical release on February 13, just ahead of Valentine's Day, promising a dark and passionate take on the classic tale for modern audiences.
