As the highly anticipated film Wuthering Heights makes its dramatic debut in cinemas this week, it provides an ideal opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary and unconventional journey that propelled Margot Robbie to her current status as a Hollywood icon. Long before she became a powerhouse producer and actress commanding red carpets and reshaping opportunities for women in film, Robbie was a determined young woman from Dalby, Australia, with an eclectic background that included circus school, farm life, and a stint as a sandwich artist.
Early Life and Unusual Beginnings
Margot Robbie's childhood was far removed from the glitz of Hollywood. Growing up on a farm in Queensland, Australia, she was surrounded by animals including dogs, horses, cats, and chickens. This rural upbringing provided a stark contrast to the celebrity lifestyle she would eventually embrace. At around eight years old, Robbie attended circus school where she learned aerial skills on the trapeze and even earned a certificate for her accomplishments. She has humorously suggested that this early training might have later assisted her in performing demanding action roles.
Pre-Fame Employment and Creative Pursuits
Before achieving fame, Robbie worked as a "sandwich artist" at a Subway outlet in Melbourne. Interestingly, shortly after leaving this position, she filmed a commercial for the same sandwich chain. Her resourcefulness extended beyond traditional job hunting; she has revealed that she secured roles by writing personal letters to casting directors, a strategy that helped her land parts on Neighbours and in Hollywood productions.
Quirky Personal Traits and Hobbies
Robbie's personality is marked by several unexpected quirks and interests. She is an amateur tattoo artist who brought her own tattoo gun to the set of Suicide Squad, where she inked "SKWAD" on cast and crew members before retiring the tool, fearing her skills were deteriorating. In her youth, she once staged a dramatic prank by covering herself in ketchup and lying on the floor with a kitchen knife to frighten a disliked babysitter. Additionally, Robbie has confessed to being a competitive eater, winning a spaghetti bolognese contest by consuming several pounds of the dish.
Surprising Passions and Personal Habits
Despite her Australian roots, Robbie developed a surprising passion for ice hockey, particularly as a fan of the New York Rangers. She even joined an amateur league while living in the United States. On a more personal note, she still sleeps with her childhood toy named Bunny, a habit her husband finds amusingly distasteful.
Career Evolution and Current Success
Now 35 years old, Robbie has transitioned from these humble and unusual beginnings to become an Oscar-nominated actress and influential producer. Her journey from flipping subs at Subway to starring in blockbuster films exemplifies her determination and unique path. The release of Wuthering Heights represents another bold step in her continuously evolving career, showcasing her versatility and commitment to challenging roles.
Margot Robbie's story is a testament to how diverse experiences and unconventional backgrounds can contribute to remarkable success in the entertainment industry. From trapeze training to television stardom and global recognition, her life remains anything but ordinary.
