Brian Cox (79) Takes Aim at Margot Robbie in Bold Interview – “I’m Gonna Say What I Want”
In a characteristically blunt interview with The Times UK on Friday, April 3, Brian Cox shared his disapproval of Margot Robbie being cast as Cathy in the latest version of Wuthering Heights. The Succession star, who holds the 1939 adaptation in high regard, even broke into a mocking Australian accent to poke fun at Robbie’s soap opera roots.
He questioned whether her physical appearance suited the gritty nature of the character, remarking, “Margot Robbie is far too beautiful for that role. I mean, I think there should be something more of the Gypsy about her, but it’s wrong of me to judge. It may be a brilliant film.”
The 79-year-old actor also revisited his public disagreements regarding method acting, specifically involving his former co-star Jeremy Strong and legendary actor Daniel Day-Lewis.
When asked if he had attempted to mend fences with Day-Lewis, who previously told Cox to stop complaining about the craft, Cox remained cheeky and dismissive. He clarified that he had not reached out, stating, “because it’s got nothing to do with Dan Day-Lewis. Dan Day-Lewis, he’s discreet. He never upsets [the filming process].”
Cox admitted that he has been asked by Strong to stop discussing their differing approaches to acting in the press. While he acknowledged his former on-screen son’s talent, he couldn’t help but offer one last critique of the intense preparation often associated with the younger actor’s style.
“He’s a good actor, Jeremy. He’s a wonderful actor. It’s just all the bollocks that goes with it. You watch children — they don’t say, ‘What’s my motivation?’ They just do it!” he told the publication. Throughout the conversation, Cox maintained an unapologetic attitude toward his history of criticizing A-list talent, from Johnny Depp to Ian McKellen.
When questioned if his unfiltered nature has cost him relationships or professional opportunities, he laughed off the concern. He noted that despite his wife’s frequent warnings to be more cautious with his words, he feels he has earned the right to speak his mind as he nears his eightieth birthday.
“I think, ‘F–k it, I don’t want to be careful anymore! I’ll be 80 this year. F–k it! I’m gonna say what I want to say,’” he declared. Aside from his verbal sparring, Brian Cox remains a powerhouse in the industry with several major projects arriving this year.
He has also provided the voice for Helm Hammerhand in the animated feature The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, which explores the history behind the fortress of Helm’s Deep.
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