Emerald Fennell's Erotic 'Wuthering Heights' Adaptation Sparks Rage, 'Emily Bronte Turning In Grave'

When we think of classics, Emily Brontë’s timeless gothic romance Wuthering Heights always makes it to the list of must-reads. The 1847 classic holds a special place in most book-lovers’ hearts, inspiring multiple film adaptations over the decades, each attempting to capture the stormy, tragic love story of ‘Catherine Earnshaw’, or ‘Cathy’, and the dark, brooding ‘Heathcliff’. However, none of those adaptations come anywhere near Emerald Fennell’s bold new vision, a provocative, erotically charged reimagining that has already sparked outrage and fierce debate online.

Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights first trailer out

Emerald Fennell's film adaptation of Wuthering Heights had been in talks over the past few months, and the first trailer is now officially out. The film, set for a Valentine’s Day 2026 release, stars Barbie actress Margot Robbie as ‘Catherine Earnshaw’ and Euphoria star Jacob Elordi as ‘Heathcliff’. Unlike the popular 2009 adaptation, starring Charlotte Riley and Tom Hardy, this new version channels a more provocative vision.

The trailer for Wuthering Heights (2026) showcases a sensual and modernised version of 'Cathy' and 'Heathcliff’s romance in a 1-minute-30-second video. When we say it’s steamy, think sweaty stable scenes, intimate finger-in-mouth shots, and sultry bodice-ripping, to name a few. This has left many wondering if the Barbie director has strayed too far from Brontë’s romance in the novel.

Netizens react to Wuthering Heights trailer

The trailer has already sparked a wave of reactions from early viewers, with netizens being divided about the unconventional angle. Social media erupted with criticism almost immediately. While some praised Fennell for reimagining a 19th-century classic for modern audiences, others argue the erotic touches distort the novel’s essence.

On X (formerly Twitter), the post featuring the Wuthering Heights trailer and premiere announcement went viral within hours, as evidenced by the numerous reactions posted by netizens. One user commented, “I never read the book, but like as it always giving steamy romance?!?!” Another wrote, “What in the 50 shades of grey is this?” A third user added, “Emily Bronte absolutely turning in her grave over this slop.”

Adding to the fury, most netizens don’t seem happy with Fennell’s choice of Charli XCX for the film’s songs. One X user commented, “And a Charli song on top of that... Emerald Fennell, you will pay for your crimes.” A second user chimed in:

“This would be much more promising without Charli XCX music already dating it to sound like it was made in the 2015s. Ugh. You could have done anything with the music. Imagine this with a real string orchestra instead of a TikTok music snippet.”

Watch the trailer here.

Wuthering Heights trailer adds to the film’s ongoing controversy

This isn’t the first time the film has faced outrage. Emerald Fennell has been at the centre of debate since the film was first announced, particularly over casting Jacob Elordi as ‘Heathcliff’. Brontë’s novel describes the character as a ‘dark-skinned gipsy’, and the decision reignited long-running discussions about staying true to the character’s heritage. The movie’s early test screenings also divided audiences, with some describing one shocking scene involving a public execution as ‘aggressively provocative’ and ‘tonally abrasive.’ 

Fennell, fresh off the cult success of Saltburn, is now gearing up for the release of Wuthering Heights. Warner Bros. has slated the film to hit theatres on February 13, 2026, perfectly timed to capitalise on Valentine’s Day audiences.

What are your thoughts on the trailer for Emerald Fennell’s screen adaptation of Wuthering Heights?

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